Exhale Records, the influential label spearheaded by techno powerhouse Amelie Lens, has unveiled a blistering new single from CTRL titled ‘Riser.’ The track serves as a pivotal release for the label, acting as a lead cut from the highly anticipated upcoming compilation project, EXHALE VA008, which is scheduled for release on July 31.
While CTRL is still in the early stages of his career, he has rapidly garnered support from some of the most respected figures in the global rave and techno circuit. With cosigns from artists like Amelie Lens, Trym, Hannah Laing, and Panteros 666, it is clear that his sound resonates deeply with the current evolution of hard-edged techno and the rave revival movement that is currently dominating both warehouse lineups and festival main stages.
‘Riser’ is a track designed specifically for the peak-time slot. It leans into a relentless, high-BPM structure that prioritizes raw adrenaline over subtlety. The production features pounding kicks, a tension-heavy build, and the kind of stripped-down, high-intensity energy that has become the hallmark of the Exhale sound since its inception. There is no slow burn here; the track is a direct, high-voltage shot of energy engineered to detonate on a crowded dance floor.
Exhale Records has solidified its reputation as a consistent outpost for the modern wave of hard techno. Much of this success is attributed to Lens’ discerning ear for the genre and her commitment to platforming emerging talent alongside established industry veterans. ‘Riser’ fits seamlessly into this lineage, and its inclusion on EXHALE VA008 suggests that the label continues to use its compilation series as a vital launching pad for artists on the rise.
As we look toward the full release of EXHALE VA008 on July 31, ‘Riser’ stands out as a definitive entry that sets a high bar for the project. For now, CTRL’s latest offering is available to stream, providing listeners with an early look at what is shaping up to be one of the label’s most formidable group efforts this year.
Stream ‘Riser’ below.