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To reimagine a poetical, electrical experimentation for the modern era, Ian Boddy configures his modular synthesizer system to produce an artful interplay of raw and refined tones. A counterpoint to his more melodious work, albums like Modulations II (91'44") are meant for those in an experimental frame of mind. Moving stealthily through his music, Boddy instantly brings the listener in - fascinating us with a spectacle of sound, and leaving us to wonder what will be sprung upon us next. In six tracks of world building Boddy crafts his own sounds, and tells his own story. Close listening will be rewarded as this technique is so meticulous, and approach and perspective so unique, that a full and distinct abstract expression is achieved. Discharging audio from electricity, tenebrous particles swim in space. In this voltaic realm, where dragons growl low and ghost chants ring in the air above, hidden hierarchies do crackle. Whenever Modulations II beams with sunlight harmonies, soon follows a blurry mass of roiling questions and charged sparks. Long builds of a portentous timbre resolve and release in the darkness - groping toward a muted fissure in reality. The pulse and rhythm of the machine harnesses a circularity of notes - radiating with each tight turn of the wheel into widening arcs of mechanized regularity. The sequencer lines echo and motor strength, traveling this collection of tones and textures between sonic storm and soothing sigh. The tricky backdrop sputters, winds out, then whispers a song of circuits dreaming. The wonderment of music and modulations - which may be realized from a properly patched up system of warm wires, transistors and knobs - may arrive during Modulations II, but lasts only briefly... because once he gets where he is going, Ian Boddy quickly keeps moving - further out.
- Chuck van Zyl/STAR'S END 6 January 2022 |
