As we move into the heart of the winter here in Montreal, we are proud to debut another talented Quebecois artist on XYZ - Monarke. Hailing from Quebec City, he has gained international acclaim in recent years as a key figure for Soul Button’s Steyoyoke. Utilizing enveloping energy and ominous melodics, the Canadian’s progressive techno productions effortlessly catch the ear and hook the mind.
For his first project on XYZ, Monarke has connected with fellow Canadian artist Jessica Zese, who provides stunning vocal work on Otherside. Easy gliding pads and ambiances set the state for the melancholic vocals, allowing somber tones to guide us through the opening act of the EP.
The title track, Edge of Reality, takes us to the brink of understanding with swirling stabs and flutter synths. A broken beats eases in and out through an unpredictable arrangement. A complex soundspace, allowing listeners their own interpretations.
Cataclysm pulls us into club territory, with a driving backbone of kicks and claps. Gritty hooks and eccentric touches bring character to this dance-centric number, showcasing Monarke’s knack for 4x4 killers.
To close out the EP, Glyph reigns in the energy, acting as a perfect summary for the project as a whole. Steady melodies collide with delayed drums, formulating trippy tendencies and an innovative style of sound.
Intricately constructed house music conjures up dystopian soundscapes with sonics both natural and alien. And it bangs, too. Bandcamp New & Notable Feb 21, 2020