The latest microcastle release welcomes the unique and exceptionally talented Upercent to the label for his debut EP. Born in Valencia, this thought provoking, emotive artist has steadily developed a distinctive style that fuses organic and analog sounds with masterful creativity, perfectionism and constant innovation, making him one of the most naturally talented producers to emerge from the Spanish scene. Upercent's uncanny ability to tell captivating stories through his music has seen him evolve and raise the creative bar with outstanding releases on Kompakt, Diynamic, Monaberry and Endless. Now making his microcastle debut with the three track artist showcase 'Vuit', Upercent presents some of the most eclectic productions of his career alongside a remix from Chaim.
The EP begins with its title track and first showcase piece 'Vuit'. Built on a deep, meditative groove, the piece develops with a unique hypnotic charm. Upercent's use of distinctive percussive elements, eastern motifs and clever dub styling, creates an instantly memorable introduction to a pure master at work. From its metronomic chiming base, with 'Tango' it's the arrangement of organic designs that makes yet another undeniably original creation. In fact, it's a supremely delicious smorgasbord of afro elements that masterfully builds towards the unveiling of a heart-melting piano in the final act, revealing the unrivalled steamy aspects of the classic South American dance to perfection.
Take a treated guitar along with a multitude of distinctive elements, add some jaw-droppingly, seductive tones, and breathe everything deeply into a stripped back arrangement laced with analog stabs, while drawing on the experimental attitude of freeform jazz and you have the third offering 'Submissive'. But, Upercent's masterstroke here is to collaborate and introduce the sublime vocals of Dwayzo Lawrence aka KnowKontrol, from Syracuse, NY. This multi-genre artist has a complementary, experimental attitude that channels his inimitable ability to inject an already profound track with authentic soul. A precious talent that has already seen him collaborate with some of the electronic world's finest innovators and labels such as Crosstown Rebels, Drumcode, Rebellion and Keinemusik.
To complete this already creative package, microcastle has enlisted the remix talents of Berlin-based artist Chaim. The renowned musician, DJ, producer and Tel Aviv native has long been one of electronic music's most fascinating artists. Having previously remixed the likes of Art Department, Pete Tong and Ellen Allien, his organic, forward-thinking music has found a home on BPitch Control, Cocoon, Culprit, Disco Halal, Rumors and Turbo. As an artist bound by no genre, but tuned into expressions of liberation and joy, Chaim creates music that is truly universal and is the perfect choice to re-interpret 'Submissive'. Chaim nails down a backbone of tough, incessant, hypnotic beats, complemented by a seductive blend of evolving, tribal percussion, while reprocessing KnowKontrol's vocal into a mesmerizing, magical spell, that forms the perfect finale to this stunning four track audio adventure. Upercent's 'Vuit EP' is a showcase that offers a unique insight into the creative, musical mind of an artist whose talent knows no boundaries.
Artwork: Anton Vill
Mastered by Conor Dalton @ Calyx Berlin
An unorthodox artist who has cultivated his own very particular sound, Upercent born and raised in Valencia, is an intriguing artist who operates in his own lane.
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