- It seems awhile since we last heard from Redshape. Apart from a single remix on Delsin, he's left it until May to release his first tracks of 2009, nearly a full year since his last single. The timing may or not be conscious, but it is certainly is impeccable: This pair of laidback tunes slide easily into the impending northern summer vibe. (More so, since they also come in the warm glow of orange vinyl.)
The opener "Alpha on the Rocks" takes its time to build, opening its eyes slowly into a gently throbbing ambient drift before strolling off easily over a plump bass roll. But as always with Redshape, the simplicity becomes beguiling when new hypnotic planes start to form between the existing layers. Here, the peaks shimmer with bright, droning crescendos, liberal dustings of bongos and other intricate percussive wizardry. The kick drum may be a touch lighter than typical Redshape, but the builds and—above all—the movement in the bass still create plenty of action without reckless urgency.
"The Box" works similarly without working up a sweat. Its drive comes from the generous bass wobble rather than the no-frills kick drum. The cymbals and percussive patterns are also simpler, leaving room for the melody to rise and dominate the drone washes. There is an aura of brightness and space, but "The Box" almost drifts too far on the summer breeze to really peak. Still, its wandering, quiet rushes are more than satisfying and will bridge nicely in a mix or give you time to stir your poolside cocktail.
Tracklist A Alpha On The Rocks
B The Box