Melodies are pushed into the shadows as the drum machine takes the lead, heavy clouds looming over a weary Techno world.
Stu Crosbie is opening 2014 with Dark Arts’ fourth 12”. The label boss has focused on Techno of the past three releases, the Brighton artist taking up the cause set down by the vanguard of 90s producers. Four tracks has been the trusted format of Crosbie’s back catalog, and continues to be with the quartet that make up the latest.
Yuri Gagarin is once more peering out from the inner label, this time immersed in green. “Point Blank” creeps into being to open. Staggered chords bend under bass and clap. A haunting quality permeates the piece, one that follows into the uneasiness of “Panic.” Percussion is central in this latest offering from the Brightonian. Many of the earlier outings on Dark Arts explored more melodic moments, this fourth installment is a much more beat driven affair. “Downstream” opens the flip with tribal toms and heaviness. Shamanistic rhythms countered with sharpened snaps. The reduced sounds of “Ricochet” closes the 12”. Minimal and stark, the Englishman finishes in stripped down form.
Dark Arts 04 is the most pared back of the series to date. Bass and beat dominate the foursome on show. Melodies are pushed into the shadows as the drum machine takes the lead, heavy clouds looming over a weary Techno world.
Dark Arts 04 is available on Dark Arts.
