subtractiveLAD - Decay As A Lifestyle EP
[n5MD]

It doesn’t seem all that long ago when Vancouver’s SubtractiveLAD released the excellent “No Man’s Land” (review), but Stephen Hummel returns with his arsenal of self-made synth pads and guitar effects for the “Decay as a Lifestyle Ep”. The first in a digital only series by n5MD, “Decay...” serves as a taster for forthcoming album “Apparatus”, which should see light of day in early 2008.

Judging by the eclectic nature on display here, Hummel may intend to move in several directions for the full release. The title track is notable for its searching guitar intro that is swiftly followed by a volley of robust percussion and controlled distortion. Arriving in similar areas to that of “No Man’s Land”, it isn’t so much of a progression but more of a continuation of that sound. That being said, the synth swirls are a nice touch recalling Tangerine Dream circa “Alpha Centuri”.

A remix of “Mayfly” also offers an interesting insight to where “Apparatus” may end up, starting with creamy waves of synthesizer sounds that soon explodes with an off-kilter electronic drum progression, that hints Hummel may return to his jazz-improv roots.

Hopefully, Mr. LAD will continue to explore the synth/guitarscapes prevalent on “Ashes”. This serene track displays Hummel’s uncanny ability to evoke images of volcanic eruptions by simply layering muffled distortion under the main guitar part. The main guitar notes in question will have you wondering whether this is actually the work of SubtractiveLAD or did Dave Gilmour make a surprise guest appearance on this effort.

Whatever may be the case, “Decay as a Lifestyle” will keep us guessing until “Apparatus” is finally with us. I guess we’ll have to wait then.

Decay As A Lifestyle EP Track Listing:

1. Decay As A Lifestyle
2. Ashes
3. Mayfly (Remix)