The Breakdown
Frankie Alpha shines on the radiant debut EP Fragrances.
Across the EP, Frankie Alpha’s captures a creative unsettledness, an eagerness to experiment whilst delivering some danceable, interesting electronic music. From the opener ‘Leave My Bones’ the influence of the likes of Jamie XX, BICEP, Bonobo and Caribou feels evident. Moving through well placed vocal samples, punchy beats and gradually building yet minimal synths, the track is at once experimental and yet infectious.
‘Coma Toes (Yay)’ continues this approach with deep sub bass, tight electronic drums and atmospheric use of samples and synth top lines. Ultimately a track which would belong on a club dancefloor, the track balances its four to the floor driven groove with a creative flourish in the production choices.
Elsewhere on the EP ‘I’m All Over The Place Right Now’ brings a more obvious EDM feel with its radiant use of arpeggiators which interlock over the thudding kick, while ‘Pisco Biscuit’ feels like a late, hazy night jam, inducing images of spinning walls after one to many shots.
Closer ‘Bludgeoning On The Dancefloor’ pulls the EP to a close with a track which is more in the vein of James Blake with the use of uneasy, angular electronics and distance, intimate, reverb drenched vocals, ultimately resulting in a track which is at once emotive, danceable and experimental.
Speaking about the EP, Frankie explains: “This EP is all about officially launching my electronic music sound, after many years of experimenting both independently and in bands. Although I work in different tempos and I like to think each song offers something different, I’m told through friends there is a distinctive style and a consistency.
I want this EP to convey the message: no two FA tracks will be the same, but you may well recognise a distinctive feel passing the speaker.”
With Fragrances, Frankie Alpha establishes himself as a producer unafraid to traverse the spectrum of electronic music, blending experimental textures with irresistibly danceable grooves. The EP succeeds in balancing playful innovation with emotional depth, each track offering its own distinct mood while contributing to a cohesive whole. From club-ready rhythms to introspective, reverb-soaked moments, Alpha demonstrates a clear vision and a knack for creating music that is both intellectually engaging and viscerally enjoyable.
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