I was kindly send some dubs by a Holland based producer Theo Howard AKA “Thesis” today.
You can check his MySpace out here , where both tracks reviewed are available to listen to.
Thesis – Shadowloops
A filtered synth intro, with accompanying ethnic percussion, and slowly approaching bass give us the intro to this spaced out roller. Throughout which the bass hypnotically comes and goes at the low end, while bongos take charge up top. There’s some simple echoing melodies at points, although it would seem the focus here is very much on the percussion, which sounds as if it has been carefully structured over the whole track.
Thesis – Hardstep
Contrary to it’s name, this isn’t what I’d call hard-step. It doesn’t rip through the low end like a buzz-saw, it doesn’t throw you off your seat with massive beats and breaks – but it does sooth, relax and very much flow throughout.
The track has some incredible filtered breaks which take the track from start to finish flawlessly. There are vocal samples and some well placed synths for interest, as well as a solid sub down the low end keeping things going. The focus here is again on the percussion, but more of the break, and drumloop then the bongos (which are indeed still apparent). The chanting/singing throughout gives this an almost eastern feel – but definately more progressive samba-step than hard-step. Perhaps an oversight on the name, but those who give this a chance will definately be pleased with the results.
No news on release information, but any news will likely surface on the MySpace.
