The Maw, a 5-track showcase of limitless ability from Renraku veteran Ascent, brings idiosyncratic rhythms, imaginative textures, and rich synth lines together into something entirely his own. Coming from the halftime scene, Ascent has carried his mastery of underground music and sound design into IDM territory as a necessary effort to bring new ideas to the genre.
Beginning with textured and atmospheric “Kin”, Ascent makes contact with hip-hop just long enough to grab listeners’ attention before settling into a tasteful 2-step groove. Lush synth design, somewhat reminiscent of old school rave pads, pull listeners directly into the sub-heavy climax of this fantastic introduction to the release.
Next up, the soon-to-be bass anthem "Control" shows Ascent's outstanding ability to combine his influences across all genres to form his own unique sound. Bearing syncopated beats and gnarled bass riffs, "Control" moves effortlessly across trap drum patterns, drum & bass synth stabs, and pseudo-footwork vibes to ensure listeners are always kept busy.
"The Maw" follows up by revisiting the footwork influence found in the previous song while also managing an even greater emphasis on dynamic rhythm sequences. Serving as the titular track, it bridges the gap between classic electronic music and the up-to-date style only Ascent is capable of by incorporating expert production techniques and extensive knowledge of his inspirations.
As a follow-up to the previous track's meticulous artistry, "Forsythe" leads the release into garage territory, rapidly switching between unique drum arrangements to constantly evolve the track throughout. Avoiding traditional motifs (yet still feeling welcome within this context), the melodic patterns found throughout "Forsythe" add flavors from mainstream electronic music to account for the musical tastes of a wide audience.
The record’s conclusion holds true to the previous concepts, but lets its power fall into a weighty, sluggish vibe to move Ascent’s previously established abilities into even more unexplored territory. Interrupted only by an anthemic and trance-influenced breakdown, “Surface Tension” brings Ascent’s masterpiece to its finish with deep basses fused to crunchy sound design, a vintage-sounding melodic section, and a final section reminiscent of the halftime scene that The Maw is sure to inspire.
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