Visionist/Lorca - W.M.I.D/Hold Back (LB002)

The recently formed Left_Blank imprint returns for its second outing in August, presenting two of the hottest prospects around at present. The promising label impressed on its debut with the ‘Nylon Sunset’ EP provided by newcomer Vessel, accompanied suitably by strong remix work from Bristol’s Peverelist. Stepping up for the follow up are Visionist and Lorca, young artists that have been growing in stature over the past few months. It’s a perfect fit for both artist and label, combining to produce a striking 12”.

Visionist (92Points, 502 Recordings, Diskotopia; his killer 'Mr 67' is now available for pre-order) opens things on the A-side in distinctive fashion. ‘W.M.I.D’ begins tentatively, with a carefully formed 808 rhythm gradually taking shape whilst downcast synth lines and vox’d sample (crying “what must I do”) craft a sound somewhat caught in the doldrums. This morose atmosphere changes almost instantaneously as the bass drop kicks in. The 808 rhythm takes dominant force, with deep kicks aligned by those inimitable cowbells, staggered claps and deft hats. Warm synth pads ascend with the increasingly prominent vocal loop, and surging subs work away beneath the surface. The rhythm is deadly efficient, and supplemented brilliantly by considered sampling.

On the flip Lorca takes full control with a track titled ‘Hold Back’. In contrast to Visionist’s opener which combines energetic 808’s with quick fire vocals, Lorca’s effort is far more relaxed, characterised by its spare rhythm and poignant chords. ‘Hold Back’ is a real stepper, built on spacious kicks which are balanced duly by supple claps and low-key hats. The open rhythms are complemented beautifully by soulful synth arrangements and a wailing vocal which tenderly rises and recedes throughout. Really strong work from Lorca on this one.

The two aforementioned tracks make up the 12” which will be released on 15/08/11. The digital release comes a week later, and will feature two additional tracks. The first is a remix of Lorca’s ‘Hold Back’ from fellow newcomer Valentin Stip. The French/Canadian producer offers a seductively warm refix, with glistened synths evoking dreamlike qualities alongside the filtered vocals and shuffling downtempo beat. Visionist and Lorca combine for the second addition, with the resulting work forming ‘Slapstickk’. The collaboration undoubtedly fits, combining frenetically shifting 808s with a shimmering synth key melody. It’s a very strong second EP from Left_Blank, one which demonstrates the talents of two fine producers.

LB002: Visonist / Lorca (Preview) - Forthcoming August 2011 by left_blank

92 Points - Visionist 'Mr.67' (PNTS001)

A new imprint is born. 92 Points is a label established by the Brixton-based We Are Dubist collective, conceptualised with the intention of joining "the dots between the rapturous heights of 1992 golden-era jungle, turn of the century champagne-bubbly garage, and the modern day mongrel forms that have been shutting down dances of late." Strong artwork and uncompromising experimental bass music is almost assured, undoubtedly so if the label's forthcoming first release is anything to go by.

The imprint will debut with Visionist's indelible 'Mr.67', a track much desired over the past few months after Oneman dropped the future anthem at Boiler Room #45. The hype surrounding the track has been heightened by extensive air time from the likes of Blackdown and Dark Sky, hype which the track promises to justify. Aligned with pounding 808 kicks 'Mr.67' is a driving force, with anxious cowbells and crashing toms working in conjunction with restless synth lines to evoke darker tones, completed by the instantly recognisable "It's the six-seven" vox'd vocal. It's an absolute killer, so make sure you keep your eyes peeled for the 12".

Visionist will also have releases coming on 502 Recordings, Left_Blank and Diskotopia following his debut on the newly formed 92 Points. To mark PNTS001, Visionist is offering 'A.E.O.M.' for free download from the 92 Points tumblr page. 'A.E.O.M.' is one of Visionist's strongest production's, a track combines strong rhythms with introspective breakdowns. The first half of the track is dominated by a powerful rhythm, filled with deep kicks, crisp cowbells and a repetitive vocal clip. However, as the track progresses, it takes a different turn, leaning towards a breakdown that moves things in a different direction. From beneath the sound 808 arrangements rises a soft female vocal, accompanied by sharp chord stabs that work an uplifting melody. 92 Points and Visionist in full control. It's the six-seven.