Strategy Drumsolos Delight
Kranky krank066 April 26th 2004
By Russell Garwood
Another release from Kranky arrives in my inbox, and another high quality, experimental record is added to my collection; in a diverse roster this release seems right at home. Strategy is a one man project from Paul Dickow, keyboard player for art-funk/dance/post rock collective Fontanelle and multiple instrumentalist in electronica group Nudge. Drumsolos Delight comprises seven songs of stripped-down electronica. Best described as ambient, some sections remind me of Lifeforms era Future Sound Of London, especially when pulsating tones morph into laid-back rhythms, and more structured passages break down again into atmospheric drones. Occasional sound effects are work well, while the trance-inducing keyboard tones are occasionally joined by more distinct tunes. Mellow sounds, soft noise, prominent bass, and entirely fitting, restrained drums, all make for a very relaxing listen. Occasional effects-laden vocals are far back in the mix, and very effective under the layers of synths.
Standouts include Super Shewolf Inna City, the most FSOL reminiscent song, a more beatdriven title track and the tranquil, borderless effort Final Super Zen. Throughout the release a good balance is maintained between accessible, strongly rhythmic songs and the less concrete pieces. Much emphasis is placed on atmosphere, rather than construction, and as such Drumsolos Delight is a great success. For fans of ambient and laid-back electronica Strategys music comes highly recommended, as it manages the tricky act of being minimalistic yet still substantial.
Official Kranky Website
Kranky krank066 April 26th 2004
By Russell Garwood
Another release from Kranky arrives in my inbox, and another high quality, experimental record is added to my collection; in a diverse roster this release seems right at home. Strategy is a one man project from Paul Dickow, keyboard player for art-funk/dance/post rock collective Fontanelle and multiple instrumentalist in electronica group Nudge. Drumsolos Delight comprises seven songs of stripped-down electronica. Best described as ambient, some sections remind me of Lifeforms era Future Sound Of London, especially when pulsating tones morph into laid-back rhythms, and more structured passages break down again into atmospheric drones. Occasional sound effects are work well, while the trance-inducing keyboard tones are occasionally joined by more distinct tunes. Mellow sounds, soft noise, prominent bass, and entirely fitting, restrained drums, all make for a very relaxing listen. Occasional effects-laden vocals are far back in the mix, and very effective under the layers of synths.
Standouts include Super Shewolf Inna City, the most FSOL reminiscent song, a more beatdriven title track and the tranquil, borderless effort Final Super Zen. Throughout the release a good balance is maintained between accessible, strongly rhythmic songs and the less concrete pieces. Much emphasis is placed on atmosphere, rather than construction, and as such Drumsolos Delight is a great success. For fans of ambient and laid-back electronica Strategys music comes highly recommended, as it manages the tricky act of being minimalistic yet still substantial.
Official Kranky Website
