Build My, the latest release from Perth resident and West coast head honcho Diger Rokwell, is six tracks of interesting, genre-bending, border-crossing beat wizadry.
‘Darkness’ gently eases the listener in to the EP, softly building up with tender reverbed vocal samples, light rhythmic patterns and a soothing ambient backbone. Sticking to a solid beat throughout its three minutes, its one of the least beat-like but still nod-able beats that have graced my ears in some time.
The following track, aptly titled ‘Wake Up’, pulls the listener out of the depths of ‘Darkness’ and into a euphoric jilt, pushed on by a stunning synth line. Complimented by rather more intricate percussions, singing birds and light electronic flourishes seep through from the background.
‘Broken Man’ chops a jazzy guitar sample in an interesting blend of electronic and acoustic; while the title track of the release, ‘Build My’ brings the funk. A slapping bass line, soulful vocal sample and strong groove make this track hard to sit still to.
The final tune, ‘Together’, comes across as an interesting cross-cultural experiment in sound. Brought in by an oriental sounding plucked instrument, Indian-esque percussion soon follows, along with a sweeping flute to fill in the space. Although not entirely out of character with the other songs on the release, it definitely shakes up expectations following the previous beats.
Released through Rokwell’s own label/collective The Community, Build My is another stunning addition to the ever growing catalogue of the Australian electronic music scene.
Joshua Millar
