music culture

5 Albums That Still Inspire…

I’ve been debating what the function of this column should be. Yes, it is to spread my viewpoints on current events in electronic music culture, and yes it is to introduce you to exciting new artists. But I thought this week it would be enjoyable for you to get a glimpse of some of the music that has truly inspired me as an artist over the past few years, and that I think is timeless electronica.

Lately, many ‘name’ DJs are putting out what sounds like hurried mix-sets comprised of trendy, disposable music that doesn’t hold well with time. In fact, in recent years I find it hard to think of a mix compilation that has left a strong impression on me. Music shouldn’t be rushed, and the albums and CDs which are thought out and created for the sake of making art always shine over those that were slapped together just to put someone’s name in the spotlight once again.

I keep going back to listening to (and making my own) artist albums as opposed to DJ sets, which allow artists to express themselves infinitely times better and more fully than a DJ set. It is truly a special experience to be taken through an entire album following the vision and sounds of one artist or group of artists. I’m not saying you can’t make a brilliant DJ set, (and I do hope to hear more in the future) but there is something undeniably special about an album of 100% original material from an artist you really vibe with.

1. Ulrich Schnauss – A Strangely Isolated Place: Ulrich has truly perfected his craft as master of the melodic, and A Strangely Isolated Place is quite possibly one of the most beautiful albums of the last decade. The vocals are stunning, the chord progressions incredible, and the songs all seem to just get better with each listen. I’ve heard some people say they think parts of the songs go on for too long, but I think the repetition in melody allows for you to really get lost in its lush layers. I can’t get enough Ulrich.

2. Royksopp – The Understanding: You probably have Melody AM in your CD case right now, and yes it was a stellar album too. Perhaps I’m weird, but I actually enjoyed The Understanding even more – which probably puts me in the minority. The warmth of this album is something all its own, and offers something to fans of essentially every genre of electronic and even pop music. It is fresh with every listen – their vocals are dynamic and it’s just a wonderful piece of music. Where Melody AM leaves me in a melancholic mood, The Understanding just sets my soul free.

3. Tycho – Past is Prologue: Tycho is one of the best kept secrets in the electronic music realm. He doesn’t flaunt himself around the Internet, and his marketing is understated – which earns the nod from me. Clearly he’s into making his music for the sake of it, and it shows when you listen to any of his stuff – it is pure emotion. This disc is amazing in its simplicity yet fullness, and Tycho achieves an amazing balance of unique percussion, uplifting melodies and strong basslines – with very, very subtle vocals. Tycho just plain rocks.

4. Sound Tribe Sector 9 – Artifact: Future-euphoric jazz – that’s how I would describe this disc. Sound Tribe Sector 9, or simply STS9, as they are often referred to are amazing live, they have done artist discs that run the spectrum from electronic, to jam-rock to more jazzy sounds – but Artifact has to be my favorite. It’s in the true nature of STS9 – something unique which is subtle and complex at the same time. The tracks change direction so quickly you hardly even notice, yet keep you in the abstract groove perfectly. This is something I feel like everyone who is into unique electronic music will enjoy – and STS9 may be the breath of fresh air you seek if you’re looking for electronic musicians and are burnt on our stagnating DJ scene.

5. Sasha – Involver: I loved Airdrawndagger, GU San Francisco and Ibiza, and of course all the Northern Exposures. Involver is something all its own, however. To me, this highlights all of Sasha’s production and mixing skills wrapped together in a unique remix album. He makes all the tracks truly have that Sasha flow, and the disc is just stunning. Its feel is more warm than electronic, and almost marks the end of an era when DJs were playing truly emotional and dynamic music. Sasha’s still on his game, and can bring the roof down in a club whenever he wants – but I still hope he makes a return to this slower, more relaxed sound.

And if you’re curious, I’m currently working on my fourth artist album, entitled Lifeforce – which takes much influence from the discs listed above. You can get a glimpse here.

http://www.clubplanet.com/news/archive/5_albums_that_still_inspire.asp

© 2005-2009 Adam Singer.