HiPSTER WAVE

Let’s get it chopping.

Faces by machinedrum

Oh yes we did.

It’s finally here! Machinedrum’s–aka Travis Stewart’s–long-awaited new record, Room(s). This is Stewart’s second release on the Planet Mu label, the first being the four track EP–Sacred Frequency.

Favorite track so far is “Gbye,” but the feel from the whole release is really good and rivals the best dub step and experimental artists with that Machinedrum charm so many people have become fans of. We would launch into one of those descriptions with flowery adjectives like it “has beautiful soundscapes and rhythms that would send any dance floor reeling,” but we won’t do that and just strongly urge that you check out the album. “She Died There” is also a beautiful song that isn’t to be skimmed through.

That whole appeal that artist “Burial,” has as a dubstep/2-step garage/ambient maker is throughout some of the songs on Stewart’s record, but without the monotony that loses us with Burial. Always enough change to keep the listener engaged and ready for more. Then tracks like “Now U Know Tha Deal 4 Real,” have a really interesting use of percussion samples and a terrific progression with unique, pretty synths that are very Machinedrum-esque. Sounds that are sort of retro and vintage, brought to life with charismatic melodies, alongside professional editing and DSP. Last but not least, don’t forget the vocals. Seems like over the years the tasteful use of vocals has been increasingly employed in Stewart’s work.

Enough review already! Check it out now on iTunes and grab your copy!

So this TL record drops on 7/19/11 on Warner Bros. (Available for pre-order on iTunes now).

It’s pretty good, but different from the London sound we’re accustomed to hearing. Maybe that’s because now instead of using Machinedrum aka Travis Stewart as a producer, Theophilus is using Dan Carey, who has produced for artists like Hot Chip, Lily Allen, Sia, Franz Ferdinand, The Kills, and the list goes on.

The first track, “Last Name London,” is really the best track on the entire record. It’s like Theophilus blew his load in the first three minutes and 46 seconds of the album. Everyone has different taste though, so maybe your favorite track is a different one, naturally. “Love Is Real,” is a pretty hot jam too.

The record features appearances by artists Holly Miranda and Sara Quin of Tegan and Sara. We’ve been following Theophilus London since 2008 and seen a lot of changes in his music over the past few years. Honestly, his instrumentals were way better when Machinedrum was on them–more unique and less manufactured–but since he linked up with A-Trak on the 10,000lb Hamburger Tour (taking Rye Rye’s spot on the tour), Theophilus met Kanye West and the rest is moneymaking history.