seven

first dbs/r4 split came on a little 7", this time it is a cd release with excellent sleeve design by ben didier. according to early press releases a while ago, d.b.s. (which is scott sturgis, also known as converter) was composed entirely of processed vocal samples. this idea was quite amusing in itself and did make me wonder what kind of sound could come out of that (some of you might remember that he did sample his cat on latest converter album, so the initial sampling precedent has been set).

d.b.s. turned out to be high-quality caustic ambient, similar to power electronics. four static-filled, noisy tracks could probably be compared with mechanized ambience present on "shock front." however, this time it is more focused on modulated frequencies, contrasted by distant strings. this contrast is one of the most striking features of this sound and is what gives it an atmospheric feel.

for the most part d.b.s. tracks feature no percussion elements, although at times a nicely placed saturated crash adds depth and structure to the track. by the end of "protean waves" features some marching percussion intertwined with twisted frequencies.

d.b.s. seemed a little simplified and more repetitive than converter, but obviously, this has been used as an atmosphere-setting device, and was inevitable for this release. my favorite tracks were simpler, and more transparent "brainstem" and "protean waves" that presented a nice contrast of more fragile and organic elements and heavier, inhuman frequencies and dense mechanized noises.

it takes some time to get into sound of r4, but by the time "taleban radio disturbance" hit, I was getting into its saturated, crunchy pulsating sound. multiple dense frequencies and constantly advancing waves of heavy static backed by deep disturbing bass, makes it a perfect example of quality power electronics. the best qualities of r4 get revealed on this track. overall, it shows its best during heavy aggressive moments, while its ambient parts left me a little bored. closing "hnau" continues the assault with crashing waves of static that tear through multiple sound layers, at times I was pleased to hear some hints of rhythmic sound textures that make this track even more impressive.

altogether, I was quite impressed with this release, I will be looking forward for more r4 material and at the same time wondering if d.b.s. will pick up and what direction will it move, considering how much of these elements converter used on the last album.