Novel 23 (aka Roman Belousov) and Vesna (aka Dimitri Tchernjak and Alex Gaponenko) are probably two of the most forward-thinking musicians in Russia, and the world for that matter. Putting them both on one slab wax gives them that much more appeal.
After having numerous compilation appearances and releases under his belt, Novel 23 is most notably remembered by his astounding work with Pitchcadet, Art-Tek, Benbecula, Neo Ouija, Toytronic and Merck records to name a few. With an ear for the emotional 80’s influenced electronica that Novel 23 produces so consistently, Roman has, yet again, unleashed two powerful tracks with the France based Sound Silent imprint.
The dynamic duo of Vesna from St. Petersburg, Russia have also found a warm home with Oakland, California’s n5MD Record label with a debut full-length release to be announced later this year. Having recorded for Cheburec, Lo Recordings, and Psychonavigation, Vesna are well known for their interactive crunchy beats, warm basslines and deep electro-fusions of melody and harmony. It’s no wonder that these two groups would get called to unleash the A Red Agents Action Split 10″ EP. And now to describe the 4 cuts on this thick pressing of vinyl…
Novel 23’s “Trigger Beat” is an inspirational delight. Packed with uplifting melodies, this memorable piece spans through classical moments with an enchantingly fresh musical past.”Aquaeductus,” on the other hand, reveals a darker element by gently brushing sincere moods next to slow moving electro. As always, Novel 23 manages to paint a portrait of thick mechanical melodies within these two emotive tracks.
Flip this 10″ over and you have Vesna. “Parodie” delivers a bassline that rolls across the audio spectrum like a freight train at full throttle. Casual touches of ambience and a sizzling rhythm makes this track a sure highlight on A Red Agents Action Split. “Red Arctic Box” rattles along (in a good way) with a whining melody, abstract electronic percussion and sounds that you might relate to Eu and Funckarma. Certainly a compliment for Vesna, but one that also shows us that they can keep a lush environment supported by complex rhythmic arrangements.
As a sum of its pieces, the A Red Agents Action Split 10″ EP carves a unique path into the next generation of sound sculpting. Plunging peacefully into experimental electro/hip-hop, these two Russian producers stay true to form within each of their tracks while making music that is uplifting and sincere from start to end. You can’t really get much better than this.
Look out for Novel 23’s upcoming full-length on Bip_Hop called Architectural Effects as well as Vesna’s n5MD release coming soon.
A Red Agents Action Split 10″ is OUT NOW on Sound Silent/Inkorporation.
