Review: Peaks EP and Speaks (Remix) EP

Peaks EP - Peaks

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This twin release from EDM producer Peaks, from Dublin, is the 8t/9th release from fledgling label iH! audio. These four tracks and three remixes are a 46 minute trip of progressive electronic music.

These beats are immense. Each track clocks in around the 120-130 bpm mark but the rhythmic development is so engaging. Set to a fairly steady bass beat, the constant embellishments are surprisingly danceable. On top of this are layered rich synths and industrial glitches. It reminds me a lot of Sasha's Airdrawndagger and the Aphex Twin influences are also evident. Each track is minimal yet intense.

The opening track On Every Beach is the most chilled-out. Starting minimal, it builds slowly for almost the entire track until the beat finally evolves into the steady four for the last minute while the other elements fade away.

This EP falls into that sweet spot where you could listen to it chilled out in your room but also bang it out during a DJ set. These long evolving tracks are only a taster for what Peaks can do live. Check him out if you get a chance.

Speaks EP - Various (iH! Audio)

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The accompanying remixes feature some fellow iH! Audio producers chopping up three of the tracks from the Peaks EP. Speaks builds on all the original features of Peaks' music and pushes it further. Adding more swirling pads, chopped glitches and high-energy breaks.

The stand-out track is the On Every Beach remix by Ben Bix. The heavy distorted beat first grooving and funky before ramping it up. Bix's signature overload of timbre is so distracting that you hardly even notice it's in 5/4!This will make you move, even if you don't want to dance it will shake you into submission.

You can name-your-price download both from the iH! Audio bandcamp page.