Central to this LP’s sound is multi-instrumentalist Chris Ward’s use of the Rhodes keyboard, a piece of equipment traditionally used in Jazz Fusion. Ward’s use of the Rhodes keyboard would certainly explain the rich, almost supernatural air to tracks such as the opener ‘Navajo’. The shimmering echoes emanating from the machine do have an air of familiarity, almost nostalgia, that feels simultaneously warm and cold.
From what the blurb on Planet Mu tells us, Ward is more concerned with channeling his own musical history through new technologies than putting his own spin on any musical trends pervading the airwaves and blogosphere. Instead, his music remains separate, in its own little bubble. It doesn’t care if you like it.
On tracks like ‘Wear Out’ Ward even sounds like a particularly ethereal Wayne Coyne as beautiful laid back vocals drift over sweet little melodies. It’s staggering that this is only his first album; the level of maturity in his approach to composition is comparable to that of a veteran producer, incorporating influences from across years.
I wouldn’t say this album was influenced by or part of any particular style floating around at the moment, but I would say it’s well-timed with the return of Deep House, Techno and abstract electronica. And you can expect to see a lot more of Chris Ward.
Title: Parodia Flare (Planet Mu)
Artist: Tropics
Out September 19 on Planet Mu
