Sublime tracks from the seasoned Netherlanders, the Irishmen replying with the same level of analogue class.
Some would say Dublin is “coming of age” with regard to electronic music. No longer living there I can’t say, but there are definite stirrings in the “smoke.” More and more labels are cropping up and the growing buzz was exemplified in a recent piece in The Irish Times on the state of machine music across the island of Ireland. One label pushing the electronic envelope is Signal Code. The Dublin imprint has focused on homegrown talent over its three year life, but is casting the net further for its first various artists outing.
The incredibly diverse Duplex open the EP. Chris Aarse and John Matze have been stalwarts of Clone, and Techno for that matter, for over their fifteen years of releasing. The Rotterdammers dish up “Machines and Tapes.” A swimming track of subtle key changes and textured bass is the result, clever rhythm patterns weaving through mists of melody. Costelloe follows with the charms of “Finite.” The track picks up where the boss left off with Solar Code, bright and shimmering chords, crisp sniping snares and full body bass. A superb piece from a man who is fast becoming my favourite producer from the homeland.
Back to The Netherlands and Mark Du Mosch opens the flip with “Nexus 5.” Smooth and silken notes fall from the hand of this talented musician, percussion melting into a sonorous sea. We’re back to the Fair Sod for the finale. E.S.S. is a moniker of Matt Flanagan aka DeFeKT. Cold winds arrive for the close. Clinical Electro coils are warmed. Terse beats bending under strong and stirring keys.
Green and Orange haven’t got the best of history in Ireland, hence the hopeful white stripe in our flag. But when it’s the Irish and the Dutch, on twelve inches of vinyl, it’s a more than happy marriage of those old colors. The EP is rounded and packed with thoughtful, tightly executed electronics. Sublime tracks from the seasoned Netherlanders, the Irishmen replying with the same level of analogue class. If only we could do the same in the football from time to time.
VA EP 001 is available on Signal Code.
