Ken Karter – Monad XXI (Digital EP – Stroboscopic Artefacts)

Genre/Influences: IDM, experimental-techno.

Content: We recently already discovered some interesting minimal-techno minded artists from the Stroboscopic Artefacts roster like Chevel and Dadub. Ken Karter is one of the latest signings to the label.

This Berliner based artist has already released multiple EP’s, but now joined this label for the 21st part of the “Monad” label-series. Ken Karter is an interesting and somewhat visionary artist who tries to create ‘a world where art meets science, where chaos is arranged by the clinical order of numbers’. It’s a strange concept and fascination, but I’m always curious to know how it can be transposed into music.

The 4 composition clearly reveal the work of a true sound architect. I can’t really say that Karter belongs to an established genre as he looks more interested in the creation of sounds, which he likes to manipulate. The compositions are supported by overwhelming and powerful blast, which sound like they are emerging from complex studio procedures. It’s one of the main characteristic in this artist’s work.

Ken Karter deals with pure experimentalism and techno minimalism, but can we speak here about a real genre? It’s hard to say, but there clearly is a sonic bridge between techno music and experimental sound creation.

I can’t say that it’s fully accessible although fully enjoyable for all lovers of intelligent contemporary compositions. “Monad XXI” reflects the darker side of techno-minimalism. The tracks are progressively joined by harder and more danceable fields, but globally speaking this EP is an impressive creation exploring the most alternative corners of techno music.

Conclusion: If you’re a bit familiar with the work of Ken Karter you’ll discover a new creative exposure of the musician’s talent.

Best songs: “MX-04.11”, “MX-02.11”.

Rate: (DP:8)DP.

Band: www.facebook.com/ken.karter.1

Label: www.stroboscopicartefants.com / www.facebook.com/StroboscopicArtefacts

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