Primarly the musical vehicle of German-based electronic composer Markus Popp, Oval makes a innovative style of minimalist techno that is unlike most electronic music out there. Opting to eschew traditional synthesizers, Popp has been known to create a body of work then lay it on a CD, only to write on the data side of the disc with a felt pen. This gives the music a start/stop, rhythmic effect that's similar to what many glitch producers create on their computers. Getting its start in 1991, Oval was a pioneer of sound during its formative years and is now considered one of the more groundbreaking and revered electro outfits on the scene today.