The dub techno veteran shows his sunnier side in a three-pack of soundscape tunes.
Al Wootton has been busy. Like seven releases in the last 12 months busy. His most recent output, In Our Thousands, In Our Millions, is out on TRULE, a UK based label run by Wootton that is home to many of his releases.
In Our Thousands, In Our Millions is a special release. The EP will only be available for two weeks, exclusively on Bandcamp. And, most importantly, all profits will be donated to medical relief for Palestine.
Wootton’s recent work is characterized by broken beats, dark moods, and dub bass. On the one hand, In Our Thousands, In Our Millions continues that tradition. On the other, the EP shows a different side of Wootton – one that is lighter and more inviting.
Track 1, “Thousands,” opens with a dub bass so rumbly it might knock your drink out of your hand (if played through the right sound system). This feels like classic Wootton. Unlike much of Wootton’s work, however, the tune has a four on the floor kick drum, making it feel quick and light on its feet despite the heaviness of the dub bass.
Tracks 2 and 3, “Millions” and “Barco,” are where Wootton’s lighter side shines. In “Millions,” Wootton trades in sub bass for bright blips. A high frequency beep zips in and out while shimmering synths revolve in the background. The result is a sun-drenched soundscape that makes you want to live inside it for a while.
“Barco” opens with quiet, far away sounds that make you lean in closer. Gradually, a muffled, distorted melody emerges from the shadows. It feels like we’re underwater. Around the 3-minute mark, subtle strings join the ensemble, adding an emotional tug that feels sad and happy at the same time.
In Our Thousands, In Our Millions is a lesson in being present. The tunes are not about looking forward to a climax that’s yet to come. Rather, each tune should be savored moment by moment.
Here’s to the now.
-Forest Lieberman
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