electronic posts

Aether

Monday, January 19th, 2009 by Kyle

hip-hop // experimental

Look at the picture accompanying this post and imagine how it might sound; that’s likely what you’ll hear in the debut album by Exponential artist Diego Chavez. Recording as Aether for this outlet, Diego somehow invents spare time for graphic design when not producing music as his other alias Otic Angst, with A.M. Architect, or for the hip-hop group Lotus Tribe and rock band The Panic Division. The amount of diversity woven into Artifacts is mesmerizing and breathtaking; clearly the work of a very talented and driven individual. Combining grit with vibrance, molding casual, assured flows of conscious tranquility, while also keeping a dynamic and youthful essence is a lot to consider, let alone craft well and fully deliver. His label says it best when describing this as a lovingly sculpted expression of beauty, love, tragedy, hope, and everything that makes us human.

Human elements of abstract hip-hop.
Aether - Orfeu Negro
Aether - Makeshift Sanctuary
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The Juju Orchestra

Saturday, December 13th, 2008 by Julija

tango // bossa nova

The German-based producers and DJs of the Juju Orchestra make a mean cocktail of styles with great hooks and irresistible beats. As the trio blends live instruments and a variety of samples, “This Is Not A Tango” brings an uptempo Argentine dance interpretation evoking the smoky and passionate sound of Gotan Project. The softly funky Bossa groove of “Nâo Posso Demorar” reflects the influences of such music icons as Caetano Veloso and Stan Getz, while its easy going vibe makes it the perfect lounging tune. (Thanks, Philipp!)

Soulful tropical beats mixed with retro appeal.
The Juju Orchestra - This Is Not A Tango
The Juju Orchestra - Nâo Posso Demorar feat. Katia B (stream only)
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Obi Best

Monday, November 3rd, 2008 by Michelle

electropop // indie pop

Obi Best’s debut album, Capades, is a startling and addicting collection of refined pop songs. Whether it is the more orchestral ballads or synth-driven electropop that make up Capades; the record is equally dreamy, witty and infectious. Alex Lilly’s capricious lyrics are tempered by tight musical arrangements, resulting in a playful and most importantly, fun sound. Lilly’s sweet and pellucid vocals, backed by Bram Inscore (keys), John Wood (keys) and Barbara Gruska (drums), elevate the carefully composed and surprisingly complex songs of Obi Best.

Dreamy, whimsical electropop.
Obi Best - Nothing Can Come Between Us
Obi Best - Swedish Boy
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Madita

Tuesday, October 14th, 2008 by Julija

electro-jazz // electronica

Viennese chanteuse and songwriter Madita musical debut came as she lent her soulful vocals to dZihan and Kamien’s critically acclaimed album Gran Riserva back in 2002. Produced and co-written by Vlado dZihan, Madita’s second album Too (2008) offers richly textured electro-jazz. Madita’s standout track “Because” delivers a mixture of eccentric piano-tingled beats, spectacular vocals and the glitter glamour of Goldfrapp, while the seductive quality and retro lounge vibe of “Deep Down” brings to mind the playful elegance of Bitter:Sweet.

Disarming charm.
Madita - Because
Madita - Deep Down
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RF & Lili De La Mora

Thursday, October 9th, 2008 by Kyle

acoustic // dreamtempo

Ethereal beauty preciously tuned; sewn from misty morning drops of dew, each wee sound held secret inside. New life, new day - warm with glow under spell of flowers’ bloom; so hush their reverent chanting. Familiar Trees begin to rustle with serene approach of Sun’s affection. Soft wings flutter above why and through clouds of gathered wisdom - gazing views abound. Bumble of bees a mere murmur as nestled hearts wake to unfettered confessions in Earth’s exhale. Ryan Francesconi then records what he, Lili, Joana Newsom and others reprise.

Keys to a secret garden.
RF and Lili De La Mora - Fences
RF and Lili De La Mora - Eleven Continents
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