, Feb 28, 2005
Flow.ers is another solid compilation from the Sutemos folks. This time around they focus on minimal, dubby techno and ambient pieces. As with any compilation, there are a few tracks that, though pleasant enough, are more of the filler variety. On the whole though, this is a consistent release that, true to its name, flows nicely from start to finish.
I found myself drawn to three tracks in particular. The first was the Octex track, Otnemem. It is very deep, dark and warped sounding; a pulsating juggernaut which is both smooth and jittering at the same time. I don't know much about Octex but based on this track, he seems to stand apart from other minimal artists due to the intense nature of his work.
The Rod Modell track is also quite good. Bouncing space quarks ping pong off each other to begin the track. About halfway in, they fade a bit and take a backseat to a dubby infectious rhythm which seems to expand and grow until it begins to hiss and ooze out. Warm chimes begin to fill up the vacant space and the dubby rhythm begins to wax again. A glistening chorus of crickets shimmers beneath it all. The beat becomes more organic and light as the track fades out.
Yagya also provides an excellent contribution, We Reject The Now. Rolling waves of thick textural ambience move at a relaxed unhurried pace. It is very rich sounding but there is also a subtle darkness present. At the same time, a low octave rhythm works itself out. The waves begin to sound almost like voices or a chorus. A muted high hat like the sound of a chugging train over dried leaves morphs into a low whistling wind sweeping over a plain. It airs itself out, light and soaring yet anchored to the beat and anchored back in. The gently throbbing rhythm fades out completely and we are left with only desolate atmospherics.
4.7/5 (