Emerging electronic artist schalter.exe released a phenomenal EP today titled I can guide you through the maze, via Berlin-based label Moniker Eggplant.
The 8-track EP, which is the label’s first release of 2026, was written, mixed and mastered entirely by schalter.exe. The EP has a retro-futuristic theme to it, and was created with the self-built FM software synth OPLoid. Each track holds a visceral sense of nostalgia, and they could easily form part of a soundtrack to a PC game from the 90’s.
Alongside the EP release, schalter.exe also dropped a cassette tape which is available on Bandcamp, and is limited to 50 copies. The tape aligns perfectly with the release, as it reinforces the retro and nostalgic nature of the EP, but also breathes new life into the project through a physical form.
The EP unfolds like an intriguing story, from the mysterious opening track ‘welcome_1.mid’ which lasts just 14 seconds, to the brooding and dark nature of the second track ‘Loner’, and the introspective, melancholic nature of ‘Exiled’, the EP carries a profound emotional depth, while highlighting schalter.exe’s technical prowess.
The third track on the EP ‘Emotional Main Title Theme’, features a powerful visualiser on YouTube, which includes pixelated, bright-coloured imagery, coding, static graphics which mimic old PC games and a matrix-like alternate reality. The video captures the playful, yet poignant essence of the single in a remarkable and aesthetically-striking way.
Watch the video below:
The EP is a fantastic foundation for schalter.exe, as the artist tackles themes of existentialism, connection, growth and humour in a manner that’s not only easy to digest, but also entertaining. We can’t wait to see what comes next from this extremely talented artist!
Stream the EP below:
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