Dive regularly Dub-albums seemingly appear out of nowhere. "Dubocracy" (Dave Meeker) by The Wavestate Project is just such a case. Suddenly, it's there—with an appealing cover, a title that fits the current world situation, and nine tracks that spontaneously entered my sphere of perception. Research into the authorship of the work reveals scant official information, according to which the album represents the fusion of reggae, Dub and acid synthesizers to create a new soundscape. Sounds like a generic ChatGPT lyric. So, there's nothing left to do but listen closely. A first suspicion arises: Has someone tried out their new toy? After all, Korg has a synthesizer called "Wavestate." And indeed, the second track sounds as if The Wavestate Project had just started playing – dominant synth sounds, a somewhat bumpy rhythm. But then the picture changes abruptly: Suddenly, there are wonderfully produced Dub-Tracks that pull out all the stops of the genre. Either the producer has had a steep learning curve, or here is an experienced Dub-nerd at work. But let's leave the speculation aside. What matters is what comes out at the end – and that's convincing. The reggae rhythms are tightly produced, the sound is rich and clean, the Dub-mixes exciting. The music radiates a bright, upbeat mood that immediately puts you in a good mood. The defining element of the album, however, is undoubtedly the synthesizer. But don't worry – there are no annoying pads or excessive electronic gimmicks here. The Korg synth takes on the role of the lead instrument and fits modestly and harmoniously into the overall picture. While it always remains recognizable as a synthesizer, it puts itself entirely at the service of striking, beautiful melodies that go far beyond the generic drone that one hears from some "real" live lead instruments. Dub knows. The result: Dub-Songs that almost invite you to hum along. "Dubocracy“ is not an album for Dub-Purists who are looking exclusively for classical sounds. But for all those who Dub Enjoy it with open ears, offering an exciting and refreshing listening experience. An album that puts you in a good mood—and that's worth a lot.
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The Wavestate Project: Dubocracy
One response to “The Wavestate Project: Dubocracy"
I don't remember exactly when I thought it. Maybe it was on my last drive on the highway. Maybe some shit on the radio had really gotten me on my nerves again. Synthesizer sound filth that threatened to completely contaminate my ears. Now, I've been listening to Rasta music for a long time, and even though I'll never be a Rasta, I'm inclined to adopt one of its best virtues every now and then. I don't really know if it's true, but the ability for self-reflection and its occasional application has often become known to me as part of the Rasta philosophy. And so, while listening to the shitty music on the radio, I began to reflect on my own musical taste (or did reflect on it? I don't know for sure). And that's exactly what this album from
Wafestate project came to mind.
The review is about the second track! "Shift of force" or rather "Shit of force." What a horrible synth blare! After what I wrote about it in the Release Radar, I thought this DubThis tune is the complete opposite of my initial overall impression of the album. I actually wanted to clarify that, but then I thought, no one would be that interested. However, this review gives me the opportunity to mention again that I don't give the album a 9, but only an 8. DubContains tunes. Track 2 is where it belongs, in my opinion. In the digital trash can!!!
Otherwise, I can completely agree with René's impression with a clear conscience. And the way I interpret it, we even completely agree on track 2.
Even if the classical sounds in Dub will remain my top favorites, I always enjoy listening DubMusic that's not so suitable for purists. My ears are open and, above all, clean, because I always dispose of the trash "very quickly" (as soon as it smells ;-) You don't want to rush into anything...)
Okay, before things get too dirty, I'd rather say goodbye for now and look forward to all the good things we'll still get to experience.
“Why don’t you use Japanese records, much cheaper!”
I still wonder how that Dub Syndicate came up with this text. I have the feeling that Donald Trump imposed punitive tariffs on Japanese reggae records a long time ago, especially on German ones. Well, that's a different topic...
As long as ………………. lemmi