by Ben Hogwood

What’s the story?

After a number of years away from music, Arthur Oskan is getting his hands warm again. This is the second EP to mark his return, a duo of extended tracks that mark something of a change in direction.

Under the restrictions of the pandemic, Oskan took a deep dive into modular synthesis, putting together a carefully constructed sound reflecting his response to isolation.

What’s the music like?

This is music that takes the listener somewhere else. The first track, Adult Themes, has a hypnotic figure that starts at a measured pace and timbre. Gradually the tones sharpen and the energy heightens, a controlled piece of moody instrumental music that proves highly effective in setting the scene. Balancing this is the reflective Maybe Tomorrow, its softly pulsing undercarriage supporting the brighter tones above, which become lighter and float away like wisps of cloud.

Both pieces are instrumentals without drums, but the cross-rhythmic currents create plenty of interest.

Does it all work?

It does. Oskan has made two subtle pieces of ambient music here that calm the head but also provide it with positive energy.

Is it recommended?

It is – with hopefully more to come in this vein of writing from Oskan.

Listen

Buy