Vand

The second release from ISOTOOP sees Vand venture out solo on three divergent and introspective cuts, each cultivated from the Dutch musician’s live repertoire, and an austere remix from the ever-accurate Italian duo natural.electronic/system tops off the release.

Throughout each of his original compositions Vand explores his varied definitions of club music: opener Futureshock showcases an isolated groove, sights centred on the dancefloor through its foreboding and uncertain tone, but a self-assuredness is palpable in the craftsmanship. Gaze takes lithe shuffle-ups of the tracks’ sharp snares, woozy atmospherics, snarling frequencies and shadowy basslines — intrigue is gathered, and kept through the prominent yet minimalist dub-minded elements. Vand’s final original offering Trialism blends gravitas and grace together on top of the unlevel ground of the syncopated, impulsive drumline.

Close friends of the label, certified maestros of the dancefloor natural.electronic/system take Trialism for a spin on the closing piece; the Italian duo establish a sound based on restrained loop hypnosis, evocative and suggestive, leaving space for more to be said.

A spacious and dark realm, but far from a void; pearlescent light pools, reflections beaming back pale starlight.