seven

shock

arcon 2 (1997)
anton · August 26, 2001

this very short single is among the most impressive findings in past couple of weeks in this genre (or rather my historical research in the depths of drum&bass roots). ever since I got access to some very impressive collection of drum&bass spanning a number of years, I have found quite a few memorable releases, that I hope to mention later on.

this two-track single reminds me of myer or simpler architect. it has been done around the same time and adheres to the same style of laid-back, elegant drum&bass. what sets it apart from the peers in the genre is the diversity of its sound. it never locks itself in the genre, using drum&bass textures as merely elements in broader sound picture, spiced with multiple delays, breaks, impressive ambient interludes, strings, distant frequencies.

both tracks on this single feature strong drum&bass drive, but at the same time break out into the more intelligent side of the genre, creating much more of a "listening" music, with distinct dark appeal. it is both simple and diverse, broken and fluid. ambient textures, well-placed pauses and spacey, echoing sounds make a perfect contrast with heavy, nicely paced firm percussion and short, deep basslines.

I was instantly captivated by this short release that still appeals to me a lot more than any of their other releases. I am not sure how feasible it is to attain this record, but give it a chance if it ever crosses your path.