The experimental dance music of Berghain resident and Leisure System co-founder Sam Barker resists categorization. Based in Berlin, the producer utilizes modular synthesis and self-built mechanical instruments to project a utopian vision of functional, sensory-stimulating melodies and rhythms, minus the kick drum. Following an EP in 2018, Barker arrives at his full-length debut, Utility, titled in reference to his pragmatic approach and transhumanist philosophy. He explains, "It occurred to me that my musical decisions were often unintentionally utilitarian, following an instinct to maximize pleasure in one way or another. It's sort of unfashionable to admit, but by removing elements that have strong genre associations, this became a natural consequence." It's out on Berghain's in-house label Ostgut Ton.