Click play for some mood music.You may have noticed that in recent years that some artists have started to go all out with their album releases. Additional content above and beyond the album has become the norm as a reaction to slumping album sales as internet downloading (both legal and illegal) has increased its foothold. Bands are now faced with the choice of either taking the risk on an album only release or offering bundled incentives that will entice listeners and fans to buy a hard copy rather than download.
One recent example of this phenomenon are the three recent "Flatlands" releases from West Coast electronic artist Nalepa. The original album was released earlier this Spring on the 1320 Records label (STS9, Pnuma Trio, Eliot Lipp, JFJO) and features the gorgeous and cerebral ambient music of Steve Nalepa. Self described as "glitch-dub", Nalepa's style of music seems initially understated and relaxed but after only a short time of listening the atmospheres he creates become unique and engrossing.
Around the same time, another album was released entitled "Flatlands: Remixes" which, as you may have guessed, contains remixed versions of tracks from the original album. This round of songs feature a host of artists and a much wider variety of styles ranging from downtempo to dub to dance. Here is a side by side example of an original Nalepa track "Monday" compared to its remix by the Glitch Mob.
Third in the trilogy of Flatlands releases is "Flatlands: Video", a stunning compilation of visual interpretations of Nalepa tracks. Having not only been an influential musician, Steve Nalepa is also heavily involved in the visual end of artistic expression often combining both in his performances. This video is a nod to that cooperative creativity and showcases some truly amazing talent from a handful of visual artists. Here is a taste of what "Flatlands: Video" has to offer (watch full screen in High Quality mode):
All three of these releases are available on their own but can also be bought as a bundle at a discounted price giving listeners (and watchers) a chance to try one or two or to go the distance and get all three. The full package is definitely worth it.
For more tracks from "Flatlands" and "Flatlands: Remixes" check out Nalepa's page on MySpace Music.
To purchase any of the "Flatlands" releases click here
No comments:
Post a Comment