"I really wanted to represent different styles and moods on this EP, from 'open air' warm-up vibes to 'proper party,'" says Peggy Gou about her latest EP for Ninja Tune. The Seoul-born, Berlin-residing DJ/producer offers three tracks on Once, and each cut is telling of the influences she's soaked up during the formative years of her career, from electro, African music, and early '90s house to techno. With 4 well received EPs, a slew of remixes, and some high profile mixes under her belt, Gou's rise through the ranks of electronic music was fast but never groundless, and Once is another indicator of why she's one of the most exciting names in the scene right now. "It Make You Forget (Itgehane)" stands out as chord stabs, pads and xylophone melodies glide over a super groovy rhythmic foundation, and Gou's effortless-yet-effective singing in her native Korean brings all the elements together. "Hundred Times" packs a little more punch (I'm thinking this is the "proper party" joint), and "Hanjan," which features spoken word-style Korean lyrics from Gou about drinking tequila and being sprawled on the bed, is a funky af closer. Shoes off!

• black 12" vinyl pressing
• full color pic sleeve
• music label: Ninja Tune 2018

reviewed by midnight diner's club 03/2018