Who? The true name of British electronic musician Burial.
Why? Burial's influence on electronic music after 2005 can hardly be discounted. His tracks, EPs and albums have been dissected and analysed countless times to the point of beginning to resemble biblical exegesis. I think I know why: there is a pervasive sense with Burial's music of there being a ghost in the machine, an almost preternatural and haunting life that animates his distinct electronic soundscapes. And people want to find that ghost.
What resonates with me? At its best, Burial is music for late-night or early-morning reminiscing, wistful to the point of melancholy, offering a blend of very human emotions that take on the shape of some self-made necklace glittering in nocturnal streetlights. Burial deals with tiny bits of discarded vocals, samples and swaddles them in thick, earthly bass. At once, Burial can captivate the overpowering enormity of city life and the individual, closely-held feelings within it.
Best bit? The 'Loner' EP is still my favourite, representing Burial's characteristic sound amped up to frantic levels. As far as individual tracks go, I would choose 'Rival dealer', a three-part music journey that exudes danger, thrills and, at the end, redemption.
Why? Burial's influence on electronic music after 2005 can hardly be discounted. His tracks, EPs and albums have been dissected and analysed countless times to the point of beginning to resemble biblical exegesis. I think I know why: there is a pervasive sense with Burial's music of there being a ghost in the machine, an almost preternatural and haunting life that animates his distinct electronic soundscapes. And people want to find that ghost.
What resonates with me? At its best, Burial is music for late-night or early-morning reminiscing, wistful to the point of melancholy, offering a blend of very human emotions that take on the shape of some self-made necklace glittering in nocturnal streetlights. Burial deals with tiny bits of discarded vocals, samples and swaddles them in thick, earthly bass. At once, Burial can captivate the overpowering enormity of city life and the individual, closely-held feelings within it.
Best bit? The 'Loner' EP is still my favourite, representing Burial's characteristic sound amped up to frantic levels. As far as individual tracks go, I would choose 'Rival dealer', a three-part music journey that exudes danger, thrills and, at the end, redemption.
Up next: Marina Abramovic, world-class performance artist.
