A notable change in sound marks the fourth instalment in the De:Tuned 10th anniversary series. Whereas the past three have focused on techno past and present, this latest has wandered down another path; drum and bass.
A notable change in sound marks the fourth instalment in the De:Tuned 10th anniversary series. Whereas the past three have focused on techno past and present, this latest has wandered down another path; drum and bass.
Blu Mar Ten open the two tracker with their 1996 work “Sandstorm.” Although the group, originally consisting of Chris Marigold and Leo Wyndham with Michael Tognarelli joining in 2004, are still producing music, this offering is a wonderful snapshot of their earlier compositions. A near eight minute journey, the track opens with shimmering chimes and watery echoes. Shot across this backdrop are rolling snares, fast and frenetic, that counter the lushness of arcing strings and brassy blasts. The flip is occupied by a different artist, yet the trip is somewhat similar. PFM, standing for Progressive Future Music, was originally made up of Jaime Staker and Mike Bolton with Staker leaving the duo at a latter date. Made in 1993, “Runaway” is one of the pairings’ earliest tracks. Slow and smooth to begin, an amen break lands like a bolt of thunder and once it lands it is there to stay. Sharp, energy packed beat patterns are mellowed by warm keys with female vocals adding a new uplifting layer. For those after something in the way of free jazz, Peshay’s “Live At 8.28” is available as a digital release.
Although drum and bass has somewhat faded with time, elements of this trailblazing sound have found their way into a spread of other genres. Blu Mar Ten and PFM were pioneers of this style. These two tracks are emblematic of the complex percussion programming and absorbing harmonies that gripped audiences some twenty plus years ago, sounds that will still grab ears with the same fervour today as they did then.
DE:10.04 is available on De:tuned.
