- Analogue Attic has just dropped the inaugural EP from Citizen Maze. Hailing from Melbourne, Maze, aka Adam McCoy, is new to Attic’s roster. Albrecht La'Brooy is behind the ever-consistent Analogue Attic, fulfilling their mission statement (if one can call it that) to showcase “the gentle side of electronic music down under”. It’s been a great outlet for Albrecht La'Brooy’s own productions as well as those by Sleep D, Udmo and Rings Around Saturn (amongst others). True to its namesake, Serenity In The Woods is an apt addition to their catalogue, characterised by jazz-inclined house music matched with field recordings.
Natural Playground is testament to this. Bird sounds, (surprisingly serene) thunder-clapping, and dreamy pads float until some tight percussion comes in and the bass starts rambling. It's complimented by some lovely saxophone and laidback piano chords. Glade Hollow starts off with drums splattering, hi-hats panning around before a kick punctuate proceedings. The smooth pads really envelop you on this one. All the songs elements are impeccably balanced, subtly introducing constant variation. The wide range of percussive sounds and ambient textures makes it a standout - saxophone is the icing on the cake. Moonlight Sanctuary washes over you slowly as well. Pads swell as the drums slink their way in. This one has a dubby feel, delayed stabs echoing. Titular track Serenity In The Woods starts with beach sounds and percussion (always a good start). This one has a dubby feel as well – pads shimmering, fading in and out. It builds slowly, the drums hitting hard while the saxophone returns to maximum effect. Good to hear a crow squawking in the outro.
Analogue Attic has a really well executed vision. Citizen Maze suits it to a tee, providing a great debut release of nature-inspired tunes. All four productions are solid, McCoy exhibiting a great deal finesse and restraint for an inaugural release. All you have to do is soak up the wonder; how's the serenity?
- Hillfolk.