Uplifting without ever becoming cheesy, subtle and reflective with a deep wellspring of meaning bubbling underneath.
After a string of successful singles early last year Maria Sullivan (aka Koloto) presents her debut EP on Abandon Building: six originals matched with six remixes from the likes of Dot, Ekoda Map and Clozee. Drenched in glitchy textures the EP weaves soaring marimba like melodies with powerful percussive stutters and stretches. Clearly an adept of the old IDM masters a la Four Tet or Aphex Twin, there is also a nod production wise to the modern glitch-hop clique as Koloto liberally applies energetic beat manipulation techniques.
What really makes this album triumph however is its warm, wistful heart. Thoughtful progressions and moving melodies lend the excursion genuine emotional impact, the sort of thing I can imagine turning to for comfort at the end of a rough night. Uplifting without ever becoming cheesy, subtle and reflective with a deep wellspring of meaning bubbling underneath. All of the remixers remain faithful to this emotional spirit. Remarkable actually in that each new take could almost pass for another original, no mean feat with six different minds in the mix. A testament then to the uniquely personal voice that is on display here. All in all an impressive debut, truly beautiful music and a promise of good things to come.
Mechanica is available on Abandon Building. [Bandcamp]
