- The premise behind Robert Hood's latest release, the first in a trio of EPs preceding an album, is a little vague. "The idea behind Paradygm Shift," Hood says, "is similar to a shift in our focus. We can become so complacent; we are so comfortable with our surroundings. I think this is the time for electronic music to find a new mindset." That reads like a soft jab at his peers, but is likely more of a challenge to himself.
Hood is synonymous with minimalism, so it makes sense that any change of approach on Paradygm Shift Volume 1 is incremental. Melody takes a back seat on both sides, though especially with "Form," which is pushed forward by gaseous swells and stuttering snares. On "Lockers," varying tones board the beat as it rushes along—before you know it, they're bunched together like rush-hour commuters. Subtlety is what makes Volume 1 so engrossing. Hood's rhythms have an elegant gait, even as they feel urgent. "Form" and "Lockers" are far removed from the helter-skelter loops of "Power To Prophet" or the more recent "Shaker." So far this paradigm shift is headed in the right direction.
TracklistA Form
B Lockers