Bespoke, the debut EP from Sydney producer True North, is a journey through deep and mellow soundscapes, distant vocals, and nostalgia-laden samples. Offering four tracks that overwhelm with full yet delicate sub-bass and nod-worthy rhythms, Bespoke shows maturity in both song construction and production which is refreshing from a debut release.
The first song, ‘The Addler’s Bite’, is easily the most sparse on the EP, providing a perfect opening for the rest of the tracks. Fading in with swirling piano samples before dropping down into a gritty reverbed rhythm, the bass presents itself half way through, only to stay for the rest of the EP.
‘Klopfgeist’, possibly the stand out track of the four, fades in on a similar note, this time with echoing chimes, softly introducing the track before the bass line kicks in and takes over to provide a significant bottom layer as well as the melody. Effected vocals soon become present, joined by an overwhelming and oscillating synth, before falling out in a mass of chimes and ambience.
‘Black Tortoise’ follows with a much more dance-focused rhythm, however, still follows the previous tracks in both mood and intricacy. A smooth and shuffling drum break marks this as one for the fan of the more relaxed and downtempo side of drum and bass.
The final track, and namesake of the release, ‘Bespoke’, rounds out the EP with one of the most mesmerising and nostalgic build-ups, before making way for the signature heavy bass and liquid rainforest-esque percussion. Finding a balance between the more seduced first two tracks and the dance prowess of ‘Black Tortoise’, ‘Bespoke’ provides a perfect ending to a stellar EP.
(Sidenote: True North is a good friend of mine, however, give this EP a listen, and you’ll understand that my opinion of his music is in no way changed by that fact)
Bespoke is available as a name your own price download from The Finer Things’ Bandcamp.
Joshua Millar
