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Jun 27, 2016 Web Exclusive By Charles Steinberg

The London electronic duo Plaid have sustained their passion for sound design and relevance in the genre by being equally attentive to the emotive aura and the architecture of their compositions. Andy Turner and Ed Handley’s embracing attitude toward the neoteric digital tools of their craft has been fruitful in a time of consistent innovation and has made for nuanced production on their new release, The Digging Remedy.

Compu-patterns drop in place with dart like entry, making for studies of precision, while bell, synth, and guitar notes are tidal, washing away boundaries to draw the pieces back from sounding too programmed and robotic. At times a track will roll into monotony, sort of running in place, but such is the pitfall of electronic sequencing. This is mostly avoided and instances of off kilter somersaulting that toy with the matrix of beat measures make for engaging conversation between rhythmic elements.

What’s evident is the duo’s zeal for absorbing and processing whatever is in their field that will help expand their creative reach. This is inspiring in itself and promotes open-minded listening. (www.plaid.co.uk)

Author rating: 7/10