Every time the label dives into the vast oceans of house, techno and electronics it resurfaces with another pearl from the depths. Function, form and flawless execution.
Ron Morelli’s L.I.E.S. label has only been on the go for two years, but has been receiving serious acclaim from DJ’s and electronic zealots across the world. Do latest spread of releases live up to widespread approval?
Shawn O Sullivan fresh from W.T. opens his account on L.I.E.S with a 12” and a techno teeth snarl for “Weld.” The track hammers with the thick industrial skin of the 90’s, pounding the strobe in Djax style—an eight minute juggernaut. O Sullivan continues on his techno trip with “Measure.” Beats pummel with acidic tweaks flaunting the violence. It’s classic techno being emulated (think Peacefrog)—Robert Hood or Planetary Assault Systems and you’re on the right path. “Mediate” finishes the triumvirate in fine form.
Newcomer Below Underground returns to the familiar ground of House. “Deep into Memory” slowly builds, beats and melodies layered together to produce a heady piece. “Mars Out of Range” reads more like a techno track. Synths twist and spiral in an early UR fashion whilst the beat adheres to the hi hats of Chicago. The toughest track closes. “Marathon” is a dark 303 creature and has Below Underground dishing up a smattering of beats alongside a warbling acid line.
Another débutante to L.I.E.S. arrives in the shape of Steve Moore. “Panther Moderns” throws up a variety of sounds. In parts there is something very Legowelt to the opener with its analogue keyboards and steady beats. But a darkened soundtrack pulse runs through this measured intense track. “Beyond Tyken’s Rift” is a sublime work. The heavy analogue chords recall early Rephlex whilst the synth beams pierce with the gravity of Vangelis or Tangerine Dream. A beautiful synthscape akin to Roland Sebastian Faber. “Ancient Shorelines” brings the curtain down on this jaw dropping EP. The track is powerful, with arpegiatted chords cascading under Moore’s hand. The track has similarities to some of John Carpenter’s powerful synth works, driving forward with power and purpose.
L.I.E.S. is getting more and more attention from DJ’s, bloggers and electronic fans. And rightly so. The NY label is hitting a smorgasbord of right notes. Every time the label dives into the vast oceans of house, techno and electronics it resurfaces with another pearl from the depths. Function, form and flawless execution. If you haven’t checked out Long Island Electrical Systems yet…get a move on.
All releases are available on L.I.E.S.. Purchase L.I.E.S release at Juno.
