A wonderfully talented DJ based in San Jose, California, had a conversation some years ago about her mixes and radio shows and her propensity of never speaking in either. Her interviewer made the point, as a radio presenter themselves, that they enjoy making the connections to what they're playing, reciting anecdotes, giving some history and context, and helping to push the narrative of their show along. The DJ took the comments on board and she simply responded, "If I've done my job right then I don't need to speak".
Other than being an argument-winning line, these are definitely words that have stuck with me for years afterwards. And words I have consistently called to mind whenever I hear new music from Emily "Socool" Sobool.
As an incredibly prolific DJ, producer and vocalist, Socool has consistently managed to create intricate, nuanced and dreamy musical soundscapes that have seen her cultivate a wonderful catalogue in recent years. With releases through Davis Hanke's Bathurst label, Andy Stockton's drum & bass hub of Dragon Trax and frequent contributions to the co-op Bonk Knob Records - not withstanding her own independent releases - Socool's affections for sublime and downtempo musical excursions prove an engaging and joyous adventure with each outing.
Releases to date have seen a litany of projects including standalone singles, EPs and a previous full-length with 'Ephemera' (2022); always seeming to relish the joy of collaboration, projects alongside music-makers including SEOLTA, Skysonix, Slundarq and Hanke alter-ego Lehto have further proved a signature to Socool's stylings. Further, a haunting take on Radiohead's 'Blow Out' boasting an enchanting vocal is also an absolute must.
'To the Nines' now finds Socool celebrating the release of another immaculate gem amongst her treasure trove of musical projects. A sensational nine-track opus that finds the Vancouver-based artist credited for the album's writing, arranging, production and mixing, and delivering some scintillating compositions as a result. The album also boasts some assistance in the form of German bassist Alexander "Newton" Bednasch noted for his work with The Motion Orchestra, Mankoora and Sirens & Whistles.
From the explorative nature of 'Silver Falls', the 90s trip-hop aesthetic of 'Passage', the immersive 'Inner Source' and the cinematic D&B-inspired album closer 'dreamnumber9', the album truly delivers some of Socool's most innovative pieces. The nostalgia-tinged 'Deja Vu' may deliver the album's greatest moment as a piece rooted within a bittersweet lament. Beautiful.
There's a rare kind of magic with Socool's music that invites you to feel and not just listen. In doing so, it manages to speak volumes without saying a word.
No comments:
Post a Comment