Greyscale’s second release on its Exposure Series, titled Luminous Energy, is an explorative four-track compilation demonstrating masterful execution and distinct takes on dub techno.
With over ten years of releases, its safe to say that Lithuanian label Greyscale has their fingers on the pulse of dub house and techno. This label takes their craft seriously; constantly going above and beyond what’s expected of modern electronic music labels by upping the anti with elegantly designed physical copies of their releases. From all white vinyl, to double-sided black CDs, these records look as good as they sound, and its nice to see labels that still care to create a tactile experience for their supporters. With all aesthetics aside, Greyscale consistently delivers top-tier music, and is a key player in cultivating an international affinity for cutting-edge dub techno.
Starting things off is a laidback groove from Spanish producer Francisco Aguado. His track “Vertical Time” is a serene, introspective deep-dive, gently nudging the listener’s attention inward. Crispy hi hats, and a meandering percussive loop keep the mood lively, while a duet of atmospheric pads sooth the soul. This track feels as light as a feather, yet maintains a solid groove that will keep you locked in. This track serves as an ideal introduction, not only for the record, but also for your next outdoor soirée.
While the next track is similarly laid back and refreshing, it takes on a different flavor of dub-inspired house music. “Forget the Brain,” is Giacomo Pellegrino’s trance-inducing, sensual contribution, and it takes the momentum of the record up a notch. The title of this track is quite fitting, as the elongated echoes may take you out of your head and send your mind drifting aimlessly into outer space. If it weren’t for the vigorous, lively strut of this track’s percussive elements, this track’s ambience would almost certainly leave you floored. Ambiguous vocal samples, and a lead that resembles a distant church bell, are put through the wringer of heavy reverbs and dramatic delays. House music doesn’t get much more dubby than this.
The third track on this compilation is so lively and danceable that it will have you re-thinking what dub techno is and can be. As the energy of the record builds, it undeniably peaks with Dubonautik’s contribution, “Lost.” Slightly faster than the previous two, “Lost” is a both hands in the air type of dance track, and takes this record out of the lounge and puts us in the club. A funky, ever-evolving synth lead sounds like a ravenous caged creature attempting to break free. The fundamentals of this track are bouncy, concise and create a groove that is difficult to resist, while the lead playfully vamps and over time pushes the boundaries of what a delay effect can do. This track adds a level of unpredictability to the compilation, serving as the key ingredient toward making this record balanced, rather than being too unassuming and safe.
Lastly is the calming and understated closing track, “Void Dub,” by Heavenchord. Bringing things back down to a comfortable, relaxed pace, this track utilizes a classic dub techno template, and executes it with masterful precision. Gentle, looping static takes you to an empty street with rain. This track is in no rush to take you to a climax, instead, it makes you feel as though you have all the time in the world, to surrender to the subtlety of its flow, and enjoy the ride.
If you are already a fan of dub house and techno, this record will be an welcome addition to your collection, and if you are new to the genre(s), “Luminous Energy” is a perfect starting point. Support the artists and label with a digital download, or grab an elegant white vinyl copy when the album is released on August 20th.
-Jeronimo Watson
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