Signals
by Wen
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User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1 out of 1
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 1
  3. Negative: 0 out of 1
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  1. Tapefunction
    Apr 28, 2016
    9
    In Loefah's remix of The Bug and Flowdan's, "Jah War," released on Ninja Tune in 2007, the best elements of dubstep and grime were on display in the forefront: low-end pressure subs, chest-cavity pounding kicks, skittering hi-hats, and of course, bars of pure fire maneuvering through it all from Flowdan. That essence of UK bass music seemed short-lived the years following. Brostep, theIn Loefah's remix of The Bug and Flowdan's, "Jah War," released on Ninja Tune in 2007, the best elements of dubstep and grime were on display in the forefront: low-end pressure subs, chest-cavity pounding kicks, skittering hi-hats, and of course, bars of pure fire maneuvering through it all from Flowdan. That essence of UK bass music seemed short-lived the years following. Brostep, the usurper of so many good things in dubstep, took off, techno invaded the hard-drives of the UK underground, and the fate of low-pressure, airless tracks looked bleak.

    Artists like Wen, however, would not go unnoticed, thanks to underground labels like Keysound. The resurgence of jungle- and dubstep-influenced producers like Logos, Parris, and Wen signals the new life found in the sound of dubstep originators. Tempa, Tectonic, and Keysound maintained the pressure, giving new artists space to innovate sounds and aesthetics that have not yet been exhausted.

    Tracks like Vampin', You Know, and Signal employ vocal snippets that tease out underground traditions into something totally new. Next-level production techniques and a clean sound provide plenty of interest for audiophiles and maintain plenty of space for the sub bass to establish the foundation and groove of each track.

    Galactic utilizes futuristic sound design techniques that call artists like M.E.S.H. or Logos to mind, while still maintaining hooks and melodies that keep the track grounded to urban themes. Lunar makes use of a garage/2-step beat syncopated nicely over low-end vibes, crystal clear bell-like sounds, and deep, soulful pads.

    A powerful statement on the power of the aesthetics established in the mid-2000s, Wen's, "Signals" sets a new standard for bass music and its producers.    … Expand

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
82

Universal acclaim - based on 5 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 5
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 5
  3. Negative: 0 out of 5
  1. The Wire
    Jul 17, 2014
    80
    Most intriguing are the hi-tech elements that flicker past, adding a hint of touch screen technology to the contemporary urban space. And the snatches of pirate radio speech--now Wen's signature--are engrossing. [May 2014, p.69]
  2. Resident Advisor
    Mar 26, 2014
    80
    With Signals, Wen has nearly perfected the claustrophobic grime sound he started sketching in 2012.
    Read full review
  3. Drowned In Sound
    Mar 26, 2014
    90
    It’s rare to find an electronic full length that manages to feel so varied, and yet also so harmonious in its uncompromising vision.
    Read full review
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