Joton’s label Newrhythmic brings back one of their favorite artists, A. Morgan, for a release full of heavy grooves as “Oddbox” becomes an instant classic that is being snatched up by pretty much anyone who is a ‘who’s who’ of Techno right now.
What do you want to call that sound, that quintessential Techno sound that is so very Techno yet so elusive? Whatever that is.. A. Morgan knows that aesthetic and fully ‘understands the assignment.’ He lives in this heavy groove that’s instantly artistic, fun, danceable, classic feeling, and basically everything that’s undeniable about what true Techno is.
Pulling back the veil, A. Morgan achieves this through simplistic structures, a very deep understanding and appreciation of groove timing, a well-balanced mix, tasteful use of effects as a tool, and by not overextending himself by grasping at straws for what works. He just knows what works.
This is most evident in the track “DX3”. There are not too many elements in play—everything sits right in the mix and the message is the groove—and that message comes across loud and clear. Nothing is overbearing or difficult to process, and as such, it sits right with you and is easy to digest. Though through this, you accept things as they are and get lost within the sounds as the parts slowly modulate.
“Be Mine” also presents as an easy-going track with a lot of air and simplistic elements that are treated with deft respect. It’s just the ease at which A. Morgan places these elements that seems effortless and that is awe-inspiring. The groove is pumping, the tension isn’t oppressive, and dancing to this is so easy. Decision plays within the theme of simplistic elements but explores sweeter chords in contrast to a rasping resonant synth that provides a question over the top of the mix. It’s a curious dynamic that works really well as a creative statement.
The title track “Oddbox” seems to be playing with orchestra sampling and resampling via Kontakt or Spitfire.. but it provides a word phrase that’s difficult to swallow and might be a bit distracting for some who might have misheard it. Yet, when you listen deeper, all is not what it seems. This mixed up with the strange incidental orchestra hits definitely makes this track an odd box indeed.
In summary, the whole “Oddbox” EP is another refining of the statement of intuitively thought-out and grooving Techno that will work either as tools or as simple and expressively groovy tracks on the dancefloor. In comparison, many other producers might be overworking themselves to find a similar result when all you need is to base your message on making the crowd move. The best way to do that is to make your track based around that timeless vibe of the hypnotic groove.
Note: This track is out in full as an exclusive digital release on Bandcamp, but will not hit digital retailers like Beatport or Juno until the 25th.
-Sean Ocean
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