Ethnomusicology plays a central role in the work of Aukio Sound, Helsinki-based electronic artist and DJ, and this Future Resistenza release is no different. Drawn from recordings made during his time in Benin, the 4-track EP contains two tracks with their own alternate dub versions to compliment.
Both works feature vocal feature from singer John Follass, the two meeting in Grand-Popo and recording 6 tracks in collaboration. With this material in hand, Aukio Sound returned to Helsinki to produce and master the work into the driving dub-techno heard on the EP.
The second side of this EP is built from the track “Sakpata“, introduced by Follass’ vocals progressively drenched in reverb and delay until the simple yet hypnotic rhythm section begins to take hold. Overlayed with tight and punchy stabs that almost serve as rhythmic elements in their own right, the piece is an entrancing study into the crossover between the contemporary and traditional – featuring rhythmic influences from West African drumming so important to the origins of electronic dance music.
Equally balanced is Aukio Sound’s seamless coexistence of such focused and intricate rhythm that keeps the mind occupied and intrigued, alongside the expansive, washed out vocals and delays that sit atop, coercing the listener into a stupor of sorts – an experience amplified further in the dub version of “Sakpata“.
‘Hedio Mode / Sakpata is scheduled for release on 3rd November via Future Resistenza. Order a copy from Bandcamp
1. Hode Medio
2. Hode Medio (Version)
3. Sakpata
4. Sakpata (Version)