Clear Cassette, Colour printed j-card, 2021

Continuing the label’s deep connection with Scottish music - which includes Helena Celle and Romeo Taylor - is Plastic Thought, the latest release from Glasgow based composer Joe Howe. The melodies and phrasing are derived from sources as disparate as prog rock and rave, interpreted via busy eccentric electronics (“Vulcan Airwalk”) and sci-fi video game themes (“Fantasy Zone”). Despite Howe’s mastery of of tricksy computer music, the best track might be “Pattern Buffers”, in which his precise electronic whizzes melt into a muscular groove, like a pixelated AOR jam. “Magma Pocket” is sun-dappled too, pairing a tinny melody with atmospheric sounds of tropical birds.

Illustration & sleeve design by Becky Liddiard

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