• Experimental and Leftfield approach
• Emphasis on synths, a signature
• Alluringly abstruse albeit minimalism
In my current list of Electronic artists who have earned a great deal of my admiration, Agents of Time have found themselves atop for their singular methodology towards this industry. After having clicked on one of their recorded performances last year (which was uploaded by Afterlife Recs), I didn’t need further convincing on dedicating a separate article for them. Their latest endeavour “Prince Of The Stars EP” is not merely five distinct instrumentals put together, but a unique story narrated by digital creations.
If you haven’t been acquainted to this pair beforehand this writing piece, then allow me for a brief introduction. Based in Italy, the pair (earlier a trio) have carved a hefty reputation for themselves in domains of melodic Techno, roaming freely in various incarnations of the genre and often indulging in underground styles. Utilizing analogue heavy sound, their offerings opulently peaking in harmonics within emotion-laden constructions. To describe, take for instance “Midnight Drive in Santiago” EP (released prior this one). Striking out amidst these compositions are the synths, glimmering and single-handedly driving the flow with simple but arresting inflections. It ranges from the opening titular song having a Trance-y and abstract performance, to the eccentric and Leftfield-esque “Out Of Format”. One can notice this trend continuing into its descendant as well, one of the many intriguing patterns that diverges this said group from the others in the contemporary scene.
Moving forward into today’s selected assortment, I will begin with the favourite and most memorable record in the package, “Mud Battle”. Having heard it precedingly in the aforementioned scenic gig, it finally revealed after quite the wait. Whether its the nostalgic and elementary ascending one-note riff that chimes gracefully, or the clean sub powered bassline along with the broody features, this track has been on rotation for me unfailingly every day since its official revelation. Halfway through, a shift into alternative and unexpected schematics occurs. “Prince Of The Stars” marks this transformation, introducing itself with a gentle breakbeat and field recordings. Following this, “The King of Our Days” extrapolates this motif with an Afterlife reminiscent lead playfully prancing as the low-end imitates a rising and deflating rhythm. Remember when I mentioned about the oddity of their previous mini-album? “Jimmy The Jester” signs off this collection with a bizarre tonality, an amusing round of acid-drenched beat without fastening its pace, signifying a teasing and comical strut which renders it as the deserved wrap-up bonus.
The bespoke compilation imprints itself as a newer direction for the Italian dyad, one whose foundation is based into experimentalism without compensating the sentimental trademark. One thing for certainty is my commendations for their discography, which has increased unquestionably.
What do you think?
Show comments / Leave a comment