XI – STNSN004 (Surface Tension)

 

Nov. 11, 2009 by DJ Fidelity

Christian Andersen, a.k.a. XI, has been producing melodic bass and dubstep on a serious level for five years now, and along with his friends at Independents and Loetech, has begun to make waves on both sides of the Atlantic. With previous releases on Off Road Records and Lo Dubs, this forthcoming release on Surface Tension sounds to be nothing short of an aural experience…

The A-side drops beautifully with two deep, techy productions in the form of “Dreaming Void” and “Drip.” Chest-rattling kicks and basslines pave the way for subtle, dark melodies. “Dreaming Void” grabs your attention with a twinkly programmed arpeggiator, giving it an almost 8-bit feel. A haunting sax stood back in the mix seems to float over the top of the track.

Drip provides a 2-step feel, presented in a new light with an undulating bassline that goes straight through the floor, and fast shuffling drums give a sense of movement, a straight-up dance floor riddim.

The B-side ‒ ”Trinary” and “Ethereal Plus”‒ walks along a different path, showing XI’s deeper side. Interesting synth work and reverb-soaked syncopated hits provide just the right amount of chill and a feeling of fluidity. The subby bass line makes a great foundation for XI’s very soulful tracks. The rhythmic motifs are well supported and developed as all the elements come together to form these thoughtful tracks.

Having received support from producers the likes of Starkey, 2652 and Bombaman, these tight productions prove this to be a well-rounded EP on an up-and-coming label.