‘Manatee Commune - Simultaneity’
A Mesmerizing Journey Through Sound
Seattle's Grant Eadie, known by his moniker Manatee Commune, has returned with his latest offering, the gorgeous EP "Simultaneity," released under the Brooklyn-based boutique label Bastard Jazz. This nine-track collection showcases a profound evolution in Eadie's sound, blending elements of ambient music with the rhythmic foundations of house, all while maintaining a distinct earthy and organic feel. The album invites listeners to embark on a glassy journey filled with warmth, subtlety, and a sense of wonder.
1. Love Tone: The EP opens with "Love Tone," a track that immediately sets a serene and ethereal tone. The soft, loving voice of Eadie's partner, captured in a voice memo, becomes an ethereal melody, gently woven into a tapestry of felt piano and delicate synths. This introduction feels like a warm embrace, evoking feelings of hope and joy.
2. Mosaic: "Mosaic" continues the journey with a crisp felt piano arpeggiation that is both intricate and soothing. The track is reminiscent of the minimalist beauty found in the works of Ólafur Arnalds or Kiasmos, creating a lush, yet electric landscape that invites the listener to get lost in its delicate textures.
3. Cast: With "Cast," Eadie introduces a more dynamic energy. The track features live percussion elements—shakers, bells, and tambourines—that dance around a foundation of warm synths. The result is a vibrant, sunlit soundscape that feels both familiar and new, as if the listener is walking through a bright, bustling market.
4. Path: "Path" offers a more introspective moment, with simple yet effective bass lines driving the track forward. The layers of sound build and intertwine, creating a unique auditory experience that feels like walking through a forest path bathed in dappled sunlight.
5. Faulted: In "Faulted," the simplicity of the bass is contrasted by a variety of rhythmic patterns that form a beautiful, cohesive whole. The track's structure evokes a sense of climbing, reaching for the sky, and ultimately landing in a satisfying, climactic peak.
6. Amaat One: "Amaat One" brings a sense of calm and reflection. The use of soft rain stick sounds and gentle drones creates a peaceful ambiance, reminiscent of a quiet, misty morning in nature. It's a track that encourages deep introspection and a sense of tranquility.
7. Closure: "Closure" is a warm, enveloping experience. The track features cascading melodies and a steady rhythm that feels like a gentle wave washing over the listener. It's a meditative piece that brings a sense of completion and contentment.
8. Cyclic: As the title suggests, "Cyclic" explores the themes of repetition and cycle. The track's rhythm and melodies circle around each other, creating a hypnotic effect that is both grounding and uplifting. It's a dance between the familiar and the new, with a steady groove that keeps the listener moving.
9. Touch Theme: The EP concludes with "Touch Theme," a culmination of the album's explorations. A broad, open synthetic chord provides a warm foundation, which eventually twists into rhythmic chunks that push against a familiar house beat. The track feels like a warm sunset, bringing the journey to a close with a sense of optimism and light.
Overall, "Simultaneity" is a masterful blend of ambient and house elements, creating an uplifting and ethereal listening experience. Each track offers a unique journey, full of hope and positivity, making the listener feel as if they are wandering down paths of light, invoking ones heart to flutter with joy. This EP is a beautiful testament to Manatee Commune's growth as an artist and his ability to create music that resonates deeply with the soul.
