There are a few albums out in the wild that I’ve been listening to quite a bit, but I haven’t written anything about them. One of them is the new record from Derrick Stembridge. It’s called Past Present Future: Archive I, and it released back on October 13th.
You may remember Derrick from another album I reviewed this year, Drifting in Silence’s Timeless. I loved that ambient, textured work. Derrick is back with something different, though, that is somewhat more ambitious. I should mention that he is the founder of Labile Records, as well.
Past Present Future is an interesting mix. On the surface, it is a sonically delicious electronic experience, a journey of sorts. As you peruse it, though, you’ll notice influences from pop and industrial music. There are vocals, of sorts, on a couple tracks, too, and so the album is less of an ambient soundscape and more of an album of songs proper.
I started listening to this when it released, and I honestly wasn’t planning to review it. I’ve found myself absorbed by its cinematic and yet quiet glory, however, and I consistently find new shadows, fainter whispers, and more beatific visions as I continue to listen. It went from casual interest to regular spins for me.
The album has ten songs, and they are all wonderful. Some are more ambient, such as the excellent and grey opener “Origin”. Some are more energetic and spunkier, such as the following piece “Ghosts in Our Eyes”; that is one of my favorites for its gritty electronic textures and beautiful melody. Other songs are a combination, like the next track “Virus”, which flirts with ambient and beats, and also includes some haunting vocals to boot. I find myself singing along with it, even though it’s highly filtered.
The following track is “Forever”, which feels very Nine Inch Nails to me in its sharp edges. That seems to continue directly into the fascinating “Misunderstood”, a track with what I might call rapping, but also hovering vocal interludes. It is such a cool track, and it’s becoming a favorite. “Facewithin” continues the vibe with more sharp synth lines and spacey atmospheres that are haunted by gritty, computer-like vocals. That one has such a cool beat.
I think the last four tracks are my favorites, though. “Desire” is one of my favorite tracks of the year with its swooning, concise rhythms and layers; it is such a satisfying piece full of transitions. “Paradox of Time” is suitably abstract and a little strange in both its beat and its atmosphere; it’s the kind of track you don’t notice at first, but soon you are transfixed. “Chameleon” is another favorite for its misty vocals and darkened hallways of mystery and change; I like how a simple melody is the touchstone here. Finally, “Echoes of the Setting Sun” is a fun and bright piece, which might seen weird for this record. It is full of whispers and punchy percussion, but it bounces along in such an attractive and interesting way.
Derrick has a way of grabbing me with his electronic output. I love how he utilizes vocals on this album in a way that is fitting, and how he offers various moods and tones. Past Present Future is a tasty album for electronic fans, and even if you aren’t one, I think you should give it a try.
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Find Derrick online:
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The PROG Mind 