[Album Review] Varia - Skyline EP

Hakim Barka, aka Varia, is another in a long string of young producers popping up these days. At just 18 years old, he has already got a firm grasp on production and promotion. Heavily influenced by Monstercat artists such as Tristam, Rogue, Pegboard Nerds, Tut Tut Child, and Stephen Walking, Barka's productions can be jump-up dubstep bangers while still carrying a whole lot of melody.

As far as styles go, Skyline seems to be working to explore what the Varia name can do.

Just a month ago, Varia released a small EP for Halloween with Bedtime Stories / Candy Zombie. And even since then, there's still a noticeable increase in production skill with Skyline. With an insane, bouncy bassline dominating each track, it's the little things that are able to really stand out. For instance, I really dig the horns in Junkyard Superstars. Electro Jelly on the other hand, has some sick growls along with a really sweet melody carried by the keyboard.

When we get to the title track, Skyline, we get a taste of a track that's a little more subdued and downtempo. I really like this choice since it makes the melody so much more salient - and I love me a tempo change, so the second half is just gold. I could've even gone for an even faster tempo after the first switch up, but I don't want to get ahead of myself. Then again, Skyline is followed up by Cracks (which is essentially Skyline Pt. 2) and what do I get? A faster tempo!! I can't sit still as I'm writing because of how supercharged this track is. And in the meantime, the melody is still salient - even after the breakdown.

Finally, we get to Hexahedron. Way more downtempo than even Skyline, you get that lingering kick-snare and flighty synth that go all too well together. It reminds me almost of a lullaby at certain points, just how calming and innocent it is. Varia's production is again commendable as the bouncy bassline in the second half stays in theme with the rest of the EP. A strong finish to a very enjoyable EP.




Producers are getting younger and younger each year, with production software becoming more and more available. Porter Robinson was touring with Tiesto when he was 18. Xxyyxx has been getting massive play from top producers. And many of the producers on Monstercat and other labels are in their very early twenties. With such a strong start and definable sound, I wouldn't be surprised to see Varia playing a festival in a year or two, without a doubt. Please support the artists by purchasing their work - they do it for us, after all.

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