An instrumental synth-driven EP from Portland-based artist Kenneth Roberts, Exploration SX-240 presents a spacey intrigue propelled solely by the Kawai SX-240 analog synthesizer and reverb. Released under the One Instrument record label, the EP presents a riveting, atmospheric sound.
A clanging synth intrigue escalates in tempo, invigorating with momentum, on the opening “Storm.” The whirring synth arps coalesce into a series of eerie, sporadic chills. Atmosphere is palpable on this memorable opener, and the stirring production continues throughout. The subsequent “Across the Plains” struts a patient unfolding in its glimmering shimmers, moving with subtly effective melodic navigation in the gentle soundscape’s unfolding.
“Dark Exploration” is another captivating builder. Buzzing bass gyrations and trickling keys converge with thoroughly hypnotic impact, increasing with gradual ferocity before fading back into a lusher, meditative repetition. A stirring finale, “Constellation Meditation” immerses with twinkling, wintry tones alongside a warming textural glow. Exploration SX-240 shows an abundance of atmospheric engrossment.
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The track is also featured in the genre-based, best-of Spotify compilation Emerging Electronic.
We discovered this release via MusoSoup, as part of the artist’s promotional campaign.
