Showcasing a varied palette of current sonic explorations in classic electronic and glitch-infused downtempo.
[Release page] Celebrating 10 years of releases, Hungarian label Chi Recordings puts forth its latest anniversary EP; X/FlashBack Sampler, Vol. 5, a 4 track bundle showcasing a varied palette of current sonic explorations in classic electronic and glitch-infused downtempo.
The opening track by Badun, “Go Back to Your Sci-Fi,” sets an organic foundation of steady percussion and mallets, interwoven with a morphology of a quickly glitching electronic soundscape and vocals. These two elements work together for a roaming melody, proving a continuous lofty and uplifting trip through its highs and lows.
Dave Tipper’s “Rip Cord” is a percussively slow (half time) orchestral composition picking up in the acoustically rich electronic style of his latest LP, (Broken Soul Jamboree), and taking this sound even further. Specifically pointing out the symphonic harmony of his well-arranged instruments and his use of bowing and plucking acoustic strings to build, ease and pace the tension of the song with grace. Known to continually increase the production bar and pioneer new trails, simply stating, “New Tipper,” sums it up here.
“Saturday,” by Subroute Roots carries a deeper and darker groove with its walking bassline, yet still manages to deliver a fairly bright jam style jazz-electronic feel. Dry Rhodes chords, “stabby” analog waveforms, electronic blips and glitches work together to anchor the pace throughout.
Raster’s “Steelspider” carries as the heaviest track on the EP. Strong and dominant synth stabs with morphing metalized attacks on panorama work together to provide a spatially full environment. Clean and clever effects processing also contribute to form the overall “plated” and center-layered melody, which is delivered in a tight, yet unsuspecting manner. Illuminating the track is a brighter soundscape, which is continually bombarded with high energy and expressive sonic elements.
Overall, X/FlashBack Sampler, Vol. 5 serves the ears with an example highlighting the current sound of timeless downtempo: very well produced, recognized as in the style and structure that defines the genre, yet original and demonstrating progressive steps from the current understanding.
X/FlashBack Sampler Vol.5 is out now on Chi. [Release page]
