In 2016 dub-techno artist Fluxion (a.k.a. Greek producer Konstantinos Soublis) saw his past neatly dovetail with his present connect in a serendipitous way. At the beginning of the year Barcelona-based Subwax Bcn reissued a remastered version of his acclaimed Vibrant Forms II compilation, which was issued in 2000 on Basic Channel’s Chain Reaction label. With his seminal release available again for a new generation to savor, he unveiled Vibrant Forms III. The album shows his maturity as an artist and is brimming with smoldering cuts that effortlessly roll at a slow, steady boil. As Soublis looks ahead to 2017, we checked in and asked him about five tracks currently rocking his world.
Fluxion and 237 DJs and artists look back on 2016. Read it here.
1. Second Woman – “200601je6”
What can I say? They are doing their own thing regardless. The whole album is a very introspective, conceptual thing. It feels mechanical, but alive and organic at the same time. I’ve met Turk & Josh, and I am glad I’ve remixed one of their tracks on their upcoming 2017 album on Spectrum Spools (Editions Mego). I think this project has the boldness of viewing things differently. “200601je6” is the track that I liked more for it’s sonic journey, but this album is to be listened as a whole.
2. Steve Hauschildt – “Time We Have”
I am closely following the works of Steve Haustchildt. He is one of the best ambient artists of his generation. On “Time we Have” he created these evolving melodic patterns and emotionally flourishing motifs, which I really like from his latest album, Strands. I love his works on Editions Mego and Kranky.
3. Sebastian Mullaert – “Interpretations” (Live recording for XLR8R)
I could have selected a number of tracks by Sebastian Mullaert that I like, but instead I think this one he mixed on the fly showcases his way of mixing live in an improvisational way, combining influences and cultural elements, like no other. A very interesting artist that I follow his work.
4. Antigone – “Shadow Play”
I am into what Antonin Jeanson is doing under the Antigone project. Very organically transformative music. I am following his work for a while now, and he doesn’t disappoint or slip. I like artists that stick into their craft and just by time become…better. “Shadow Play” does exactly this. Evolving organically, leaving sonic artifacts on its way.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iMGqxg9HUqc
5. Abul Mogard – “The Purpose of Peace”
Though originally released in 2012, it was compiled on an Abul Mogard compilation titled Works that was released in 2016. It’s the melodic motifs, sonic palette and dynamics that make Abul Mogoard a very prolific and interesting artist. “The Purpose of Peace” epitomizes this thin line between tranquility and unease, keeping you alert throughout. A delicate and fragile balance.