Alan Fitzpatrick returns with a new 3-track EP, Truant, showing off a mixture of pumping beats and soothing synths.
The first track on the EP (Truant) is the most driving, as Fitzpatrick experiments with piercing arcs, sweeping equalisation and heavy use of reverb. There is a regular addition of new sounds, whether they are synths, rhythmic timbres or brief vocals- there is always experimentation. Quite a while through, dynamics rise to a build up which rolls off to an atmospheric drop and approaches the climax, keeping the drive throughout. This is the track that made it to number 4 in DJ charts back in March, so the remainder of the EP has a reputation to uphold.
The two tracks that follow are both named ‘Memories of a Time Once Past But Long Forgot’. This mouthful of a title is the name of two soothing tracks which have received less recognition than Truant – this could be because the title is too long to remember, or maybe the cheesiness of the name is too much for people to bear. Either way, that would be a false judgement as the two tracks gradually bring the EP to a beautiful and atmospheric ending. Fitzpatrick transforms the sound of this EP from the driving electronic beats of track 1 to the emotional aura of track 3. The cinematic affect of this is worthy of praise.
Track 2 acts almost as a bridge to prepare us for the contrast, as it combines elements of synthesis and rhythmic pace in track one with the electronic orchestra and relaxed feel of what is to follow. While Fitzpatrick has clearly done his best to make the digital instruments sound as real as possible, there is a slight Legend of Zelda feel to the final track, as using software to recreate the sound of a physical instrument never really receives full justice. But this is an electronic album, so recording an orchestra could be a little controversial in comparison to sequencing one, and Fitzpatrick’s efforts and technology stretch way beyond the 8-bit soundtrack of a Nintendo RPG.
Fitzpatrick, his fans and people who are new to him can be pleased with the ‘Truant’ EP, as it has a cinematic sound that stretches out to a wider fan-base who should look forward to hearing it if they haven’t already done so. Check out this EP – you won’t be disappointed.
Henry Hindle
