(01.20.03) avin Toomey (aka Vessel) has been making music for over a decade with experimental / improvisational noise groups and started working exclusively in the field of electronic music in 1997. With an appearance on The Condition of Muzak compilation (Expanding), his submission of the track “Tiny” significantly increased Vessel’s immergence into the ambient electronic music community. When not making music, Gavin designs digital special effects and has worked on the C.G.I. for films such as Blade 2, Mission Impossible & Harry Potter. Quite a background for this multi-talented individual.
After listening to Dreaming in Pairs a few times, one can surely extract sincere ambience above a landscape of casual electronic delights. Beautifully crafted melodies are laced with sparkling beats that are always very pleasant and not overbearing. Vessel consistently lays out a blanket of memorable rhythms that unfold into layers of memories past and present. Those of you who have enjoyed the simple melodic moments from artists like ISAN, Plod, and early Autechre (Amber, Incunabula era) will find Dreaming in Pairs a satisfying listen. Highlights include the emotional “Tiny,” blending simple rhythmic fragments to a deep and emotive bassline; “Color Queen” shines the spotlight on a more classical approach similar to artists like Sense & Aspen. “Balance” is an enjoyable piano driven piece with minimal beats rolling across meandering melodies.
Most of Dreaming in Pairs focuses on the reflective moods of sounds that are noticeable (and sometimes unnoticeable) in everyday life. Sad moments are contrasted next to subtle highlights; Tears are shed in highly frustrating and emotional times, and Dreaming in Pairs seamlessly underscores these moments quite well. Expanding Records continues to release subliminally enticing electronic gems that consistently highlight the creativity of each artist.
Dreaming in Pairs is out now on Expanding.
