FM | RELEASES
ALBUM OF THE MONTH
Timedance
Bristol label Timedance is generally known as a purveyor of rhythmically complex techno ripe with spacious atmospherics. It’s this sound that label regular Larry McCarthy, aka Bruce, has been exploring for most of his career, across multiple EPs and his Hessle Audio-released debut album in 2018.
This follow-up marks a metamorphosis for Bruce and a curveball within the Timedance catalogue. While many of the hallmarks of McCarthy’s previous productions are still present – throbbing subs, rattling percussion, sparse and emotive synths – the big change lies in a switch from making instrumental dance tracks to more traditional song structures that place McCarthy’s voice front and centre.
As a vocalist, McCarthy has an earnest and melodramatic delivery reminiscent of ’80s synth pop. It’s matched by the highly dynamic production, where broken beats and dramatic impacts are punctuated by ominous breaks of sub bass and spacious reverb tails. On Antlers, for example, McCarthy’s vocals provide a sort of meandering emotional throughline across start-stop production that flits between ominous synth drones, bursts of drum & bass and industrial beats.
The album is at its best when leaning into its most direct pop influences though. Broken is built around an infectious garage beat that builds into almost trance-style synths built for maximum emotional response. On I’m His Ex, meanwhile, McCarthy delivers the album’s most direct vocal performance, supported by synth swells that come across like music from some sci-fi piano bar. There are times when the ever-shifting pace leaves Not Ready For Love feeling a little disjointed, like McCarthy is throwing more ideas at the album than is really necessary. On the whole though, this is a bold and fascinating album that sets McCarthy apart from many of his UK club peers. Si Truss
ADD THESE TO YOUR PLAYLIST In The Pines, Broken, I’m His Ex
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EP
Answer Code Request & Amotik, LED
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EP
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