Not every great DJ can be the best producer. The dichotomy can prove difficult to square sometimes, particularly in instances when the selector is the kind who makes especially on-point choices behind the decks.

Today, led by the likes of Nicolas Lutz, Binh and Andrew James Gustav, a wave of record-digging DJs (seemingly more popular than ever) foster a style that can only be defined in terms of quality. Adherents of the scene are recognized for unearthing old, forgotten house, techno and electro gems, always seeking out that next unique sound. In terms of their studio output as a collective, it’s been interesting, though a little inconsistent; yet, in a recent review for Resident Advisor, Matt Unicomb suggested that we may now be reaching the point where we can “expect more impressive retro-not-retro records.” Perhaps the tides are changing.

The latest to join the party is London-based Italian Francesco del Garda. Having put out a handful of mediocre tracks around the turn of the decade, he has been far more formidable in a club setting. Now teaming up with Eklo boss Seuil, he dips his toes back into the pool of production with his first release since 2011.

Bubble radiates aspects of both producers’ characters. The whimsical microhouse intricacies of a typical Del Garda selection are plastered all over “111”—an emulation of the kind of fodder that fills his record bag—strapped to the technical house arrangements of Seuil. On the whole, the ongoing chitter-chatter of the buoyant samples works, though the late arrival of a slightly too authentic siren feels a bit disjointed. Fortunately, the depth and energy in its bassline is enough to always make it a winner. “333” is made from the same mold: a frisky, stepping house number, densely-packed with complex layers of weird and delicate noises.

It’s the slightly more serious, frugally assembled “222” that has the most timeless feel. The pair cut down on the number of high frequency elements, leaving only a few electroshock stabs—it’s all about the driving beat. On first listen it is less striking; give it more time, and it reveals itself as the real gem.

As a complete record,Bubble doesn’t have the same inexplicable appeal as a lot of the rediscovered gems Del Garda champions, though it’s a pleasure to hear him putting his experience to good use alongside Seuil.

Bubble is due out on June 14, and can be pre-ordered from Juno.

Tracklisting:
A1. “111”
B1. “222”
B2. “333”