New independent label Loci Records, headed by Portland based electronica and trip-hop group Emancipator, has released its first compilation Season One today for an exclusive premiere on our site and is available via Bandcamp. The sampler features nine tracks from various artists affiliated with the label, which specializes in down tempo electronic productions. There is a certain element of minimalism that is incorporated into Season One and the sampler is the true definition of alt-electronic. Featuring Emancipator, D.V.S, Space Jesus, Stratus, Nym, Lapa, Tor, Stev and Ambinate this chronology of the Loci Records label is anything but stereotypical EDM, with an extra dose of ambience.
From initial track “Lux” by Tor, Loci’s sound is coined into the atmospheric and decidedly acoustic in the electronic hip-hop genre. Season One then transfers into a more upbeat hip-hop follow up “Diamonds,” tinged with sub bass, acoustic guitar, violin, mandolin and tambura by label namesake Emancipator. “Winter is Coming” by D.V.S and Space Jesus utilizes slide guitar, synths and vocals to create a harmony-rich interlude to the compilation, with the almost orchestral track “Raindrop” by Stratus to add to that feel. “Lesser Known Good,” by Nym is a clear representation of the overall instrumental hip-hop vibe of the compilation, as Stev, Ambinate and P3riph3ral finish out the deep thought approach that we believe the label will ultimately become known for.
As curator Doug Appling said, “The offering aims to give the listener an idea of the current sound of Loci Records. This compilation is a timestamp of unique music by a talented cast of producers stretching the globe.”
