The 17th release on Sum Over Histories, the label from Frankey & Sandrino, comes from Berlin-based producer Skatman AKA Aziz Haddad. The two-track EP from the Scatcity label head follows a year of critically acclaimed releases and cements his reputation as one of the most progressive artists in house.
Trial and Error, the first track on the EP, starts methodical and hypnotic, acting as a reflection of a year spent behind the computer instead of the decks. But the stillness is soon disrupted with piercing synths and complex melodies with ever-intricate layers that result in a chaotic yet controlled crescendo. Skatman demonstrates his production puppet mastery when he strips it all back, ending the track as minimalist as it began.
This production structure is signature Skatman. Plexiglas, the second track on the EP, follows a similar trajectory with added intensity – increased BPM, brisk hi-hats and mesmeric keys. Skatman adds industrial soundscapes alongside upbeat keys and pounding percussion, making it the perfect track to play on a hot afternoon at a festival, on some secret stage hidden in the woods.
Skatman’s eclectic, explorative sense of music is rooted in his North African background and his deep affinity with Berlin nightlife. This influence shines through every Skatman production, making him a versatile and unexpected producer. His portfolio’s been described as a musical madhouse that ranges from 80s synth pop to four-to-the-floor techno to cinematic soundscapes. But his home is melodic house, and since 2018 he’s become a firm favourite amongst Sum Over Histories ever-growing roster.
Frankey says: “I’m excited every time Aziz sends an EP our way. His unique style, unparalleled musical confidence and his willingness to push boundaries means I never know what to expect – except that it’ll give me goosebumps.”
Sandrino says: “Skatman’s Trial and Error EP is a fearless and compelling production. Aziz has once again outdone himself in creativity, vibrance and spirit. It’s always an honour to release his work.”
Skatman’s EP is out on Sum Over Histories on July 2nd 2021.
ABOUT SUM OVER HISTORIES:
Sum Over Histories is a label for the conscious listener – ‘contemporary electronic music made for closed-eyed dancers.’ – founded and run by Frankey & Sandrino. Driven by a passion for electronic dance music in all its forms, the label creates space for multi-instrumentalists and producers to explore their inner selves, creating introverted narratives that encourage profound listening for our minds, not just beats and rhythms for our bodies.
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