After last year’s debut recording, Featuring… - Internal/External’s introductory collection of feathery techno/electronica hybrids highlighted with performances by a veritable Northwest-underground who’s who - Paul Schuster (Internal/External’s master of ceremonies) immediately donned his lab coat, sequestered himself in the studio and went to work developing I/E’s sound. Schuster sought to stabilize the project by recruiting a second member, Rebecca Pearcy, for vocal and various instrumental duties. Insideout e.p. marks a subtle shift in lineup and a remarkable elaboration upon the band’s patented technotronic experimentations.
Undoubtedly the centerpiece, “Inside Outside” launches the record into the stratosphere via a heady blast of stun-tone synths, alien bass bubbles and frenetic drum loops. Just when you think you have yourself strapped in tight for the bullet train to the heavens, the soundtrack shifts. When the atmosphere has been penetrated, a back beat of double piano loops pillow a nice electro-psychedelic Sunday drive through space. The Internal/External experience shifts to a slow jam hover as Rebecca spreads a silken iceburn over “Anchordown” (a reprise of “Hope”, originally glazed sultry ‘n’ sexy by the inimitable Lois Maffeo). “Weedhead” sparks one up with a trippy vinyl sample spliced over vintage organ and classic funky drum loops. “Sweetness” is a lovely slice of exploratory electro-pop. And “Various Transmissions” treks heady post-rock realms. Instrumental versions of “Anchordown” and “Sweetness” provide ample material for the DJs and home MCs. All in all, Internal/External claim territories adjacent to such people as Flowchart, Sweet Trip, & Junior Varisty km. Insideout e.p. moves, sways, and shifts identities with hypnotic grace. Stellar reaches of techno beat programming and electro-pop vistas are achieved, as Internal/External hone their craft with this mini-album teaser.
Sweetness (mp3)
