There’s something moreish and murky in Dark Arts 03, from the surreptitious soundscapes to the full out clout of some tracks.
It’s either a wise investment or foolhardy to set up an imprint with yourself as sole artist. Some have garnered a following by making the brave choice to go it alone, the likes of Abdulla Rashim being a good case in point. Stu Crosbie has been at the helm of his Dark Arts imprint for over a year now. Two releases down and it’s time to throw financial caution to the wind with the third 12”.
The familiar visage of Yuri Gagarin beams from the inner label, multiples of his helmeted head blurring into solid white as “North From Here” spins on the platter. House styled claps are fortified by bass and shimmering scales. The melody unveils itself as a peculiar, angular Acid creature. Chicago, and its recent interpretations, is a definite influence on this drum machine belter. “From The Sky” is a dubbier piece of work. Insulated chords echo forward, a steady pulsating beat keeping pace with those breathy tones. The fragile creaks of “Fracture” open the flip. Bass lines roll, countering those sweetened melodies for an introverted piece of Techno. Crosbie decides to twist the knife for the close. “String Theory” is a coarse and sinister track. Skies darken as the threat becomes all too real.
I was reading over the Discogs entry for Dark Arts 03, the review underneath espousing this 12” to be the “finest release yet” from the label. I tend to agree. The first two EPs, especially the first, were fine pieces of Electronic music but the third installment just goes that extra sonic mile. Since the EP’s arrival in my flat it’s been on the turntables non-stop. There’s something moreish and murky in Dark Arts 03, from the surreptitious soundscapes to the full out clout of some tracks. Based on the quality of this 12″, maybe Mr Crosbie’s talent can circumvent the supposed risks of record label ownership .
Dark Arts 03 is available on Dark Arts.
