Entrepreneurialism is taken to a new level when Liz McLean Knight is namedropped in random chats of late, especially when the subtext is interesting projects to investigate. Her latest project as Quantazelle is the Coaster CD released on her own label SubVariant. Ingeniously packaged as generic QVC fodder complete with detailed how-to instructions in place of liner notes and optional available “accessories” including a carrying case with a wrist strap or custom surface labels in 4 different colors, the entire concept of the physical CD itself eventually becoming obsolete and yet still serving a purpose as a coffee table coaster can only lure the curious into wondering if the unheard music it contains will secretly share the
same fate. Thankfully, Quantazelle betrays the burning secret by delivering a solid album worthy of making its way onto our “getting ready for work” playlists.
“Braking (Hushed)” sets the precedent for Coaster‘s well-paced track sequence with its Rota tilled Alka-Seltzer breaks fizzling in the mix flirting with fresh improv melodies. “Late Blazing Kinch Theme” has the unusual combination of delicate plucked strings wrapped around noisy whistling straw samples not unlike having honey instead of jelly on your peanut butter sandwich – not everyone’s tried it, but you know it sounds good. “Clue Minus You” is 4/4 proof that Quantazelle isn’t afraid to admit she can hold her own in any setting. “Vanity Knobs with Groove Grimace” is a chilled head-nodding track that not only has a catchy title but it goes down smooth as well. “Stereofoam” comes full circle from “Braking (Hushed)” with more enjoyable beats and blips to make us forget the back cover of the CD mentions a mysterious bonus track sold separately.
With Coaster, Quantazelle adds another quarter to the jukebox of women producing quality electronic music, as well as adding to her growing list of projects already making impressive marks on the scene. From her online electronic music magazine Modsquare to her electronics accessories-inspired jewelry company Zelle and online shop Fractal Spin to share her wares, the only thing left to chat about is what to expect next from this truly multi-talented artist.
Coaster is out now on SubVariant Records.
