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Amelie Lens’ EXHALE imprint returns with the eighth edition of its acclaimed Various Artists series, delivering another uncompromising snapshot of the label’s forward-thinking vision of hard techno. Across 15 tracks from 17 producers, EXHALE VA008 unites established contributors and emerging talent, weaving together trance, acid, psytrance, industrial textures, rave intensity and peak-time club energy into one cohesive release.
The rollout begins on 17th July with VE/RA and her hypnotic single ‘Out Of My Mind’, where acid-soaked psytrance, razor-sharp synth work and subtle schranz influences collide to create a relentless dancefloor weapon.
On 20th July, Liverpool producer Alex Farell returns to EXHALE after appearances on previous editions of the series with ‘Critical’, a powerful hard techno cut driven by pounding kicks, evolving percussion and unstoppable momentum.
The final preview arrives on 24th July courtesy of rising French producer Ctrl, a fast-growing name within the rave and hard bounce scene whose productions have earned support from Trym, Hannah Laing and Panteros666. His contribution, ‘Riser’, is a euphoric festival-ready anthem built around soaring rave synths, explosive saw basslines and maximum peak-time impact.
Beyond the advance singles, EXHALE VA008 highlights the diversity that continues to define the label. Tracks from BRÅWN, Flour, Blondex & Portex, Jose Bonetto, PALOMA, Franco Smith, Aundreja & Kode, Milio Ruando, Ellen Trenn, Khira Li, Molothav and RUBIØ explore everything from atmospheric techno and industrial warehouse grooves to tribal rhythms, psychedelic influences and high-energy rave hybrids. Each artist brings a distinctive identity while remaining faithful to the uncompromising spirit that has become synonymous with EXHALE.
More than simply another label compilation, EXHALE VA008 reflects the ongoing evolution of contemporary hard techno. Rather than limiting itself to one interpretation of the genre, it embraces its many forms while maintaining an unwavering focus on dancefloor functionality. The result is a collection equally at home in dark basement clubs, vast warehouse spaces, open-air festivals and the world’s biggest sound systems.
Across 15 tracks, EXHALE VA008 celebrates a new generation of artists united by intensity, emotion and uncompromising club music, reaffirming EXHALE’s position as one of the scene’s most influential platforms.
PRE-SAVE FOR VA: https://found.ee/EXHALE-VA008
EXHALE VA008 will be released on 31st July 2026 via EXHALE.
Catalog No: EXH021
Release Date: 31st July 2026
TRACKLIST – LISTEN HERE
