The Latest Undersound Release Feels Like Time Travel In The Shape Of A Record
USR021 Combines undiscovered gems from the 90s and fresh new faces for a powerful electro / IDM VA
USR021 Cover
Undersound returns for its third VA compilation on their 21st release, presenting a mix of renowned and experienced producers as well as some new faces for the label. The EP altogether is unique, consisting of various musical styles approached in a distinctive manner, yet giving off the feeling of a whole work, with the tracks perfectly complementing each other.
We chose to premiere the first track, which is signed by Human Beings (Bert van de Grift and Allert Aalders), a duo that started out in the early days of techno in the Netherlands. For the rest of the EP, we have three newcomers to the label: Caramel Chameleon, Anton Vegel and Limile.
The record opens with “Cyberbells1” - our favorite piece here - a previously unreleased track from Human Beings, produced in their hardware-laden studio (Modest Lab) in Utrecht in 1996. Initiating a mysterious and atmospheric vibe, the first part is mostly composed of a low-frequency pad and a high-pitched metallic synth, introducing a nostalgic melody right before the drums kick in. The track revolves around a gorgeous mix of dreamy synths, high-frequency samples, acidic groovy sounds and classic 909 drums. There are so many aspects to highlight regarding this track, the melodies are insanely clever and they combine so well together, making this sound like an instant classic.
Human Beings live at Paradiso Amsterdam
From the second track, the release evolves into a harder danceful mood. “Toxic Food”, signed by Caramel Chameleon, is a breaky number from the Italian IDM prodigy where he showcases his trademark sound with emotional detuned melodies and vocoders. The distorted electric bass and the 90s-like synths set off an auditory journey - sounding very current but with a vintage taste at the same time.
Next up, opening the b-side we have “Hologrammatic Waveforms”, crafted live by Anton Vegel, a Detroit electro inspired piece. Starting with a smooth pair of chords and later accompanied by the moving bassline, it instantly draws the attention of the listener. The track is nicely highlighted by some innocent high frequency synths, making it sound peaceful, but also contrasted by a glitchy drum pattern. Finally, “Tuesday” by Limile closes this VA with its emotional overtones over up-tempo broken drums. The beginning feels almost hypnotic - the warm notes put you in a trance until the sharp kick wakes you up. Overall the track sounds dynamic and it’s got a very interesting sound - glitchy drums and oscillators along with delicate synths. It definitely gives an IDM vibe and is indeed a great choice for concluding the release.
As always, Undersound delivers a great selection. This very well-put release is impressive from the very start with an elite analog-recorded 90s track and its following amazing choice of new artists. In addition to already being fans of the label, we are looking forward to these artists’ activity in the future.
Words by Victoria Robu.
