• A journey through the EDM boundaries
• Sentimental and introspective track
• Chords more than leads
Having made the tough decision of re-emerging in the dance music scene, AN21 broke his sabbatical in 2021. Ever since, the Swedish moniker has taken strides in developing his sonic mettle, experimenting with each release. “Liquid Gold” is his newest project, yet again disregarding genre boundaries or trends, undertaking a deeper and broader exploration.
A crucial proponent in the revival of SIZE records, AN21’s shift in production approach signaled the label’s pioneering breakthrough with funky electro house (such as the notorious “Louder” with Matt Nash) to underground embracing a spectrum of house to techno. About six months ago, his previous synergy “Love’s Not Over” (with Silhouette & Kuiagon) expressed a sentimental and introspective track; resplendent with melancholic piano accompanying, the reverb-drenched and somber vocals are enriched by an off-beat bassline and unexpected textural samples: an emotional and dreamy encounter which immediately stuck to the mind.
“Liquid Gold” follows in its wake, although taking a different route: using a medley of subdued percussions furnishing a parading beat, with airy vocals on top of the marching procession. The ambiance remains the top priority, an escalating scenario. Lead synths are less involved, a stabbing chord repeating to accentuate the beat as an analog pad opens up later in the breakdown for an emotional undertone. For most of the track, the drums do the talking and demonstrate an organic groove, maintaining linear and near-hypnotic movements. Everything intensifies after the peak, as brass shots emphasize the said rhythm, energizing the composition for an exciting encore.
Despite the simplicity of its ensemble, “Liquid Gold” absorbs attention with its shimmery synths and bold drum sequencing, not aligning with prior releases from AN21. It’s creative and adheres to the ingenuity one can truly expect from SIZE.
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