- London-based producer Offshore, AKA Ewan Robertson, has been quietly developing a name for himself in the realms of UK bass and experimental hip-hop. With releases on labels such as Stuff, Disboot and Big Dada, it's something of a surprise that Robertson hasn't entered into the conscious of tastemakers. That he has enjoyed only a gradual increase in attention compared to some acts is perhaps more testament to his humble, attentive and assured approach to production and commitment to his day job as a graphic designer than anything else. After impressive live performances this year and an LP due to drop in early 2012, however, that all seems set to change.
Pacer, the second of three planned Big Dada releases, is an emphatic showcase of his finest productions yet. They're filled with emotive melodies, minimal grime snap, hip-hop bump and Celtic swing. "Pacer" is a good example of the last descriptor; a combination of raw layered effects are delicately sunk into a rolling wave of subby bass that builds with purpose until an almighty ravey arcade melody swings in triumphantly at the midway point. "Pepper" strips back to an even more minimal structure, a grime growler that snarls without settling for an obvious bite. "Mintlaw" rattles at a similar tempo but it's "Pearls & Butlers," a song featuring Cienfuegos, where this EP gets really interesting. The vocals manage to capture and enhance the sorrowful melodies. Snapping you out of your reverie—and closing things out—is "East Coast Capital Connect," a fat conductor of bass and snakey hi-hats that chugs back and forth like an assured steam engine.
Tracklist 01. Pacer
02. Pepper
03. Pearls & Butlers
04. Mintlaw
05. East Coast Capital Connect