Limping on Clouds brings together two technically accomplished artists on Harmony Records. Munich-based Polygonia and Utrecht-based Shoal are both known for precise sound design and a creative approach to the sonic materials they encounter in their surroundings. It is therefore no surprise that these four tracks feel cut from the same cloth and prove a genuine pleasure when it comes to sonic storytelling. The A-side features a solo piece from each artist, while the B-side is dedicated to their collaborative productions.
Shoal opens proceedings with »Maloja«, a textbook example of how an otherwise rather monotonous acid bassline can remain engaging across six minutes and twenty-two seconds through the careful use of drones, delicate clicks and scattered bleeps. Polygonia’s formula of ASMR-inflected deep techno reappears on »Repeat«, where organic percussion and balanced yet powerful low-end frequencies take centre stage. Gliding, subtly funky chords and self-sung vocals provide the track with its distinctive character.
»Pendulum«, the first collaborative piece, combines the strengths of both artists. Once again, organic sound aesthetics and expansive low frequencies dominate, while meticulously manipulated sounds from every angle come together to form a complete sonic picture. It is a track whose trippy complexity practically demands either a full-scale soundsystem or a pair of high-quality headphones. »Limping on Clouds« closes the EP with crystal-clear, characterful downtempo. Croaking sounds wrapped in delay effects, accompanied by breathing pads, guide the listener into a colourful, trance-like state and towards an abstract oasis of sound.
