V/A :: Fifth Listen (People Can Listen)

Belarus-based People Can Listen reveal their fifth heartfelt compilation with punchy electronic stems at its core, further nurturing artist relations. A fresh perspective on the tried and true IDM genre—not overtly groundbreaking, but engaging nonetheless.

More and more labels continue to navigate their way through artist relationship building with the intent to fill the music libraries of avid listeners across the planet. Belarus-based People Can Listen reveal their fifth heartfelt compilation with punchy electronic stems at its core, further nurturing these relations.

Reminiscent of early Neo Ouija and Skam imprints, Fifth Listen delves through emotive sine-waves as evidenced on “Console Napping” by Kri Tik— simmering bits and bobbles migrate into the meandering clicks of the beat, its tone brushed with solemn hues. VardenZenix elaborates on the sincere mood swing with “Triang and the Farting Snare”—a surprisingly delicate and fragmented piece that recalls IDM’s early days.

PCL have a knack for compiling the brittle elements of exp-electronic music—reference the contributions from Alpturer, Oë, Ogrvne, Oror, Blochemy, Sense, and Andre Clam beautifully remixed by Nearfield. There’s also a subtle interplay between flutter and fury as crafted by audio alchemists like Kothyus, the_empath, and Potential Differense [sic]. These three musicians deliver abrasive rhythmic acrobatics that are at once contagious.

If one were to blend early sonic elements found on the Cottage Industries series with Skam’s 0161 compilation, then you’ll find yourself easily locked onto Fifth Listen. A fresh perspective on the tried and true IDM genre—not overtly groundbreaking, but engaging nonetheless.

Fifth Listen is available on People Can Listen.