Modality by Sleepy Cat

In its sophomore release, VAST Recordings explores the hypnotic depths of techno with the help of Los Angeles artist Sleepy Cat. Modality explores the myriad states of human consciousness through five original tracks and two remixes by respected luminaries Declan James and Secus.

Opening the effort is “Universal Harmonics,” a sonic collage of disparate elements that combine to yield a whole greater than the sum of their parts. It kicks off Modality with a timely reminder that techno is an exercise in exploring new possibilities.

“Observation” builds on this sentiment. Without so much as a kickdrum for much of its arrangement, this highly cerebral cut gives weight to the notion that techno need not follow the standard eight-bar formula.

Up next is “Isolate.” This sublime slice of dance floor psychedelia sees Sleepy Cat opt for unorthodox methods without eschewing the fundamental building blocks of techno. On remixing duties is Declan James, whose equally industrial-influenced rendition of the source material incorporates resonant tones reminiscent of Tibetan singing bowls.

“Reconnect” burns slowly and rewards the patient listener, its synth lead warping as it seems to unwind throughout the track’s nearly six-minute runtime. While arguably the most functional track of the effort, it challenges the ear with corrosive textures a la musique concrète.

The title track, whose veil of subtle Foley effects is pierced in intermittent bursts by the distant clang of percussive hits. Secus reimagines “Modality” as a peak-time weapon, trading its vacant atmospheres for more urgent sound design elements accented by what sound like the battle alarms of an otherworldly vessel.

Modality by Sleepy Cat’s is a perfect fit for VAST Recordings. In its crucial second release, the fledgling imprint proves itself capable of singing more than one proverbial tune without straying too far from the sound that has already captured the attention of artists like DJ Stingray, Wata Igarashi, and Charlotte De Witte. The reason is clear: VAST is rapidly proving itself as an emergent leader in modern techno.

VAST challenges the sonic status quo by transmitting a compelling interference pattern. It provides a platform for artist visionaries who embark on brave, new frontiers in the medium of techno. Such a forward-thinking influence is long overdue. It is needed now more than ever.