This is a compilation that selects some of the most heartening and inviting aspects of modern electronic music.
Photic Fields can, by now, claim more Irish blood than the average American searching for the “lost family” on the streets of Dublin of a July afternoon. After three Emerald isle artists in a row the Dutch imprint is finally escaping the loving embrace of the Irish electronic music scene; well, almost. For the latest Micha Venderbos has gathered six artists, two Irish (or near), for a compilation that visits veterans of the label whilst introducing some newcomers; Fields of Light.
BNJMN, aka Ben Thomas, opens the 12”. The Rush Hour veteran offers the soulful “Shallows.” Deep and moody bars are supported by a gentle pulse for a track that borders on Electronica. Aroy Dee is next and keeps the emotional bars throbbing. The wonderfully delicate “Hiverno” is superbly involving, a fragile late evening piece. Lerosa returns to Photic Fields, picking up where he left off with Woman Flew Home. A steady beat is the scaffold around which this Irish-Italian weaves softened melodies and warming harmonies. Nick Lapien aka Metropolis introduces a colder, more Northern, wind, with “Black Hole.” Cold samples looped amongst hollowed notes and frosted tones. Perseus Traxx changes the climate, raising the temperature with a lush piece of House. Claps are tapered as chords swim amongst ripples of synth. Back to Ireland (where else?) and TR-One close. These guys have been proving themselves on a number of imprints and are adding to their growing reputation with “Soaring.” The track brings the 12” full circle, a sweet and weightless piece of electronics. Dappled piano keys cascade to guide the listener out.
I listened once. Twice. Then again. A sublime EP. This is a compilation that selects some of the most heartening and inviting aspects of modern electronic music. Techno and House are the central themes, but the misty haze of the 90s is definitely present. A record filled to bursting with great music.
Fields of Light is available on Photic Fields.
