Field Effect: Audiovariac

The artists instill a lucid sense of the visual, as many of these works could easily service a cinematic venture. With soothing themes and swarming synth backdrops, contrasts abound throughout. However, Shire-Jones' liquefying and pliant streams of sound work wonders with Gordon's emphasis on the jazz element. At times the program leads through drifting themes, often counterbalanced with layered patterns and forward-moving backbeats supplied by drummer Darren Edwards. And the musicians' conjure up a world music slant amid harrowing and digitally treated wordless chants. In spots, the electronic element suggests a mechanical pulse that conjures up notions of experiencing a large-scale manufacturing plant. Imagery abounds everywhere.

On "Dissimilar, the duo generates an electric-organic, jazz-shaded Indo-fusion character via windswept choruses, frothy percussion and a subliminal sense of antiquity. The duo even incorporates some psychedelic-drenched, East Indian effects to round a wonderful audible treat for the ears and mind.

Shire-Jones doesn't incorporate electronics as a means to an end. Contrarily, he picks his spots wisely while complementing his shrewd arranging and melody-making faculties. It's all about the music, and not the implements used to create it. That unto itself speaks volumes these days.

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