A resonating listening experience featuring both meditative electronic soundscapes and infectious rhythmic bolstering, Do or DIY is a memorable new EP from Monophonic Underground. The East Cleveland, England–based solo project embraces experimentation and DIY ethos throughout the release, which was crafted over three months. Drawing from acid house, minimal techno, and experimental rock influences, its production excels in a variety of cut-up techniques and field recordings, specific in its delectable atmospheric fixation of exploring suburbia after dark.
The EP’s title track kickstarts the release with heady, atmospheric intrigue. A chilly backing synth pad pairs with pulsing percussion, hypnotic in its steadily unveiling delivery. Sharply concise synth blares maneuver with arp-friendly allure as the track progresses with nocturnal flair. Stabs of more uneasy synth tones emerge at mid-point, while the punchy bass presence continues. The track’s conclusion furthers the project’s dynamic prowess, now embracing pit-pattering rhythms and gargled synths, fit for nighttime driving.
Another success, ensuing track “A19_a1” struts a rainy-night soundscape in its stormy sounds and illuminated synth tones, charging later into an array of infectious rhythms and effervescent synth playfulness. The project envelops in consistently balancing thick soundscapes with melodic immediacy. “Killer (for harmony)” stirs as well, infusing wordless vocal samples amidst both ardent rhythms and lushly glimmering keys, making for another eclectic display. EP finale “Cabin fever” then represents a wholly satiating send-off, initially resembling a Blade Runner-like futuristic glow and then expanding into a heavy rhythmic tour-de-force of head-nodding contagiousness. A fantastic EP from Monophonic Underground, Do or DIY is a diversely impactful electronic success.
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We discovered this release via MusoSoup.
