Renowned for smelting genres and pushing performance techniques to their limits, Counterstrike is respected from the deepest, darkest, most discerning corners of drum and bass right up to some of the biggest labels in electronic music. It’s only fitting that they return to Algorythm to release their first devastating EP of 2017. The first cut is Vitriol. A mystical intro with a vocal that harks back to the ancients leads into distorted stabs, sweeping build up and a surprising switch on the drop. The title track is up next. Electronica tinged atmospherics connects to a raspy, rising bassline that explodes as the first beats hit. Missing Channel’s science fiction-esque opening pads make way for continually building arpeggios that peak into signature Counterstrike drums and pounding distorted bass. Compulsion sees them flex their tech muscles. Infectious rolling drums combine with a snaking bassline and chrome stabs.