A 5-track release that shows his sonic versatility as he produces a dark and cinematic A-side versus an IDM/electro oriented B-side.
An anthemic, fast-forward and hopeful feel
Finnish artist Riku Annala (aka Recue) debuted on Analogical Force early this month with the Paramnesia EP, a 5-track release that shows his sonic versatility as he produces a dark and cinematic A-side versus an IDM/electro oriented B-side.
Opening the EP, “Unrest” starts with a 90s trance-like synth that may fool the listener on Recue’s main aesthetic line. The artist’s set of musical tools is so diverse that the track quickly turns into a slow breakbeat with a dirty bassline accompanied by metallic percussion timbres that evolve into a beautiful arpeggiating synth break and concludes back with an industrial feel. The title track, which had a video made for it with an interesting glitchy and abstract—but rhythmically layered—set of imagery, brings a darker and mysterious feel as it grows in shape and form. I love the hypnotic synth growing in the background, which keeps the track’s parts tight and consistent, even later on with the drum and bass upgrade at the end.
Riku’s IDM influences show up on “Ciotach” as the syncopated rhythm takes the spotlight with intriguing beats that resemble seminal Autechre paraphernalia. It also has quite a beautiful ending, in which the artist cools down with a futuristic synth palette. “Aridity” keeps the braindance vibes with an electro touch that masterfully balances opposing energies such as an evil bassline and contemplating, almost Carpenter-esque, synth pads. Closing the release, “Menace” seems to gather elements used along the whole EP, but wrapped up in an anthemic, fast-forward and hopeful feel. A highly recommended release if you like Snakes of Russia, Dfaniks and Autechre.
“Recue is the creative outlet and an excuse for a Helsinki based producer Riku Annala to spend time in his studio exploring the left field of electronic music. Something that started, and still is, based on pure interest in sound design and music production has resulted in various releases, remixes, collaborations, commissioned production and live performances. Recue’s output ranges from studio experimentations and conceptual soundscapes to more dancefloor focused sound. This has allowed his music to be featured on labels ranging from multifaceted to genre focused ones, as a backdrop for TV, theatre and live venues of all shapes and sizes.” Recue.net
Paramnesia is available on Analogical Force. [Bandcamp]
