After a rather underwhelming premiere with d’incise, I was particularly curious about the direction iod would head to with their second release. Much to my surprise it was worth the wait and Offthesky aka Jason Corder present us evolute of an ion apple, a sound construction that is characterised by warmth and harmony without being too obstrusive. Positively mentioned should be the artwork with its tension between verticals and horizontal bars on the right and the curved bands of a halo phenomenom on the left.

If we look at the presumable genealogy, then evolute of an ion apple is an interesting crossing between the 90ies school of glitch and crackles a la Mille Plateaux and continious ninth chord progressions outlined by a deep sinus bass similar to the later Autechre. The construction also carries some of the ideas of the Minimalist school, in that patterns are gradually mutating and spining off arbitrary sound combinations. Jason Corder not only captures a scenery here, but an entire moment in life and despite the prevailing harmony the track does not lose its attraction throughout its gradual mutations.

I admit this presentation may not be terrifically innovative, perhaps even oldfashioned to elite sound designers, but Offthesky do know their stuff and make it happen with a certainty and a fine sense for arrangements that puts a lot of overhyped laptop stars into shame. In my opinion evolute of an ion apple is a fantastic work and I am confident that by the end of the year it will be found in some individual “best of” lists for 2008. Highly recommended for downloading, without any restrictions.