Listening to Stasis’ output from the 1990s, Quondam Sequences inhabits a different space. The earthy tones that characterize Pickton’s sound are present, but they are not central. Instead, this three tracker explores a shifting focus where new ideas and instruments begin to merge.
An audio evolution
2022 saw the release of Stasis’ From A Failing Light, three productions from the 90s brought to ears for the first time. De:tuned are once again plumbing the DAT depths of Steve Pickton’s archive. The result is three more works in the form of Quondam Sequences.
“Citadel” opens. From a burbling blend of beats and basslines, an arcing string floats. An aquatic undercurrent is countered by the processed nature of the sound on offer, Pickton adopting a cooler more filtered opening before snapping snares give way to a reimagined bleep melody. “Into The Labyrinth” begins in a similar fashion to “Citadel.” Complex percussive lines form a base from which Detroit inspired chords ascend, textured pads and toms grounding this bright future-gazing piece. As was the case with From A Failing Light, the flip is dedicated to one track. “Hard Emotion” is a nine plus minute epic. The journey starts with a gentle harmonious breeze, the rustle of hi-hats is followed by the steady thump of the kick. It is this kick and a broad squelchy free jazz composition that tethers the piece to terra firma, the backdrop is occupied by spectral samples and translucent touches.
Listening to Stasis’ output from the 1990s, Quondam Sequences inhabits a different space. The earthy tones that characterize Pickton’s sound are present, but they are not central. Instead, this three tracker explores a shifting focus where new ideas and instruments begin to merge. Rhythm patterns are more nuanced while melodic structures maintain their subtle breadth. Music made almost thirty years ago that maps a change in sound, an audio evolution, from a master.
Mastered by Matt Colton @ Metropolis Mastering
Artwork by Openmind (aka Strictly Kev, DJ Food)
De:tuned 2023
Quondam Sequences is available on De:tuned. [Bandcamp]
