Scott Monteith’s fourth album for Berlin’s ~scape is a representation of his recent global travels which included a visit to Australia (and even a secret performance to the Cyclic Music Club!). It reveals a side to Monteith that has previously only appeared in live settings where his sound has rocked dancefloors – quite a surprise for those who know him only through his recordings. Journeyman’s Annual extends Deadbeat’s trademark deep dub techno sound further from its roots in the Basic Channel/Deepchord/Pole groove, drawing in more influences from dancehall and dubstep – without falling into their ruts. Drenched in delay and warmed by Monteith’s own programming nouse and sonic acuity, each track here is full of atmosphere and detail. Rhythms sparkle and jitter, snatches of melody flit in and out of the mix, bouncing down long cavernous halls of reverb. Whilst the vocal contributions, excepting the bonus track – a previously promo-only remix of Saul Williams for the Fader label, are for the most part purely functional, their inclusion charges the surrounding tracks with energy.’Turbulence’ rides on a sinister droning dirge-like bassline, while ‘Melbourne Round Midnight’s and ‘Deep In Country’ burn slowly on delays and urging undertow. And to close with the inclusion of Saul Williams ‘Black Stacey’ remix is a masterstroke.
Sebastian Chan
