Arkist - Out of the Sun

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  • The quick rise of Bristol's Arkist emphasizes the continued importance of geography in the internet age. A few months ago, he was virtually unknown outside of the bass-obsessed city. Now, he's had three releases on various Bristol labels, and suddenly received attention from all corners of the expansive dubstep world. His effort for the equally fresh-faced Deca Rhythm label (helmed by Bristolians Bloodman, Orphan101 and Headhunter) is the best of the three, and though he's clearly still finding his feet, the graceful movements of "Out of the Sun" and "What Do I See" are enough to distract while he keeps looking. Arkist's cheery but reserved melodies are an interpretation of the ever-potent tropical aesthetic as viewed from the window of an English bedroom, touched with an unmistakable note of melancholy. "What Do I See" is so buttery smooth, it's a wonder that it even stands erect. Every sound is a sustained whoosh; even the drums sound curiously slowed. It's a mesmerizing sensation that feels like skating on pudding, and the chilled-out vibes are complemented by tinkling piano trills. It leans dangerously close to chill out territory, but then again it's hard not to get comfortable when you're sitting in a room made entirely of pillows. "Out of the Sun" uses a dash more force, but its swing is mellifluous and the beats hit softly, the pitter-patter of raindrops falling on that aforementioned bedroom window. While he's not exactly ready to set the world on fire, Arkist is finding his way there, and tracks like these are a decent start.
  • Tracklist
      A What Do I See B Out of the Sun
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