An immensely crepuscular record, ‘peace.’ sits at the intersection of avant-garde, experimental and dark electronica, exploring niche sound design solutions with a keen eye to minimalism. Introduced by ‘a mantra’, the EP welcomes us with a healthy slice of leftfield stylings, delving into noisy, glitchy rhythms and shadowy textures, embodying early Gold Panda records or Baths-style hidden poignancy.
In all of this electronic goodness, houndstill. finds the time for mangled and filtered vocals, enriching the track in a friendlier sense, while augmenting its relatability value. Title track ‘peace.’ is short and sweet, totally instrumental, playing over micro sounds, simple synth tones and veiled harmonic structures. A pointillistic endeavour.
‘kingston road’ takes the EP to a close with slightly more conventional songwriting, a sign that houndstill. is perfectly at home on both ends of the stick. Also known as John O’Hara White by day, there’s no doubt the project is one of the most hypnotising stuff we have heard in a while. As he explains: “I had to reframe what creativity is to me. Working on the houndstill. project is the first time I haven’t felt an audience in the room with me, judging every decision I make”.
Recommended! Discover ‘peace.’ on Spotify:
