Almost three years since the texture driven and downtempo tendencies of his debut ep 'Boil', Thom Speakman (Boha) offers his sophomore release 'Drift' on Fur Trade recordings
A marked deviation in aesthetic from 'Boil', 'Drift' nonetheless retains Speakman's fascination with experimentation amongst an increased state of rhythmic activity. Held down by the groove of Justin Devries articulate drumming, lazy portamentos and layered phasing melodies create a rich, transforming space.
The first two thirds of the ep, 'Drift' and 'Slip' embody aspects of both techno and industrial mindsets, thick percussion and syncopated bass lines dance around synth arpeggios and sculpted white noise.
'Drift' passes through several different formal sections whereas 'Slip' establishes itself and holds ground for the long haul.
Closing track 'Losing Ground' plays out at a decidedly slowed pace and with an overall softened vibe.
It opens with lush field recording gestures, settles into a quasi drum & bass groove and finishes with bending chords and a bright melodic line.
Dynamic as it is energetic throughout its seventeen minutes, the ep is a matured and considered addition to
Speakman's catalogue as Boha.