Brisbane-based producer cln’s new EP is a superb blend of ambient electronic harmonies, crisp beats and contemplative vocals. Found is the second EP from cln (Callan Alexander), with a refreshing focus on layered instrumentals. The minimalist vocals blend into the lush soundscape of wavering synths and laidback percussive beats.
The title-track ‘Found’ builds on an ascending melody, with resonant layers of vocal harmonies and sparse beats culminating in a melancholic soundscape. The dense electronic waves and scattered vocal samples of ‘Left Behind’ are similar to the downtempo sound of Cashmere Cat. ‘Bricks’ has punchy beats and gnarly synths, with pitch altered vocal samples reminiscent of Flume’s ‘Stay Close’.
‘Hold Me’ is a standout with pensive vocals and drawn-out synths woven together in harmony, while ‘Clockwork’ delves into a complex world of echoing percussion layers.
With his open-minded approach to the world of electronic music, cln is following in the footsteps of experimental artists like Flying Lotus and Shlohmo. “I like to go on walks in weird/remote places,” Alexander comments. “I’m a bit of a nature nerd, so I’m generally looking for birds and animals. Being alone in the middle of nowhere surrounded by nothing but nature is a pretty cool feeling; so I think I subconsciously translate those feelings into my music. The earth is a cool place.”
Found is an absolutely divine album with its diverse soundscapes and stunning production quality.
Rating: ★★★★☆
Found EP is available now from iTunes, and for a limited time cln will be giving away a bonus 15-track collection of unreleased songs and bootleg remixes to everyone who purchases it – simply send proof of purchase to [email protected].
To catch the final shows of cln’s debut Australian tour, head along to Melbourne’s Laundry Bar on July 17, and At The Pile on July 31 in Perth – further details here
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