Stan Chetverikov - Occasum

Rising Russian artist Stan Chetverikov has been a fixture on our seasonal 'Selections' releases over the past few years, but he has yet to release an original EP on our label, until now. On his lovely, four-track "Occasum" EP, Stan's versatile compositional talents are on full display, as the tracklist ranges from cinematic downtempo to the progressive-influenced title cut.

Kicking off the release, "Occasum" is a hopeful (and often euphoric) progressive gem, which was featured recently on our "Silk Music Showcase 07" compilation. Throughout the composition, a radiant chord progression soars above a vintage progressive house groove, as a variety of sparkling melodic motifs further enhance the mellifluous soundscape. The main breakdown features an equally rapturous new lead melody, which continues to unfurl and emit rays of joy, well into the subsequent drop sequence.

Departing fully from the sun-kissed tones of "Occasum," Stan Chetverikov next reveals the glacial downtempo cut, "Frozen." In the foreground of the arrangement, gorgeous, swirling pads patiently crescendo throughout the tune, as an exceedingly chilled pattern of kick drums provide just enough low-end support. Meanwhile, the soothing echoes of dripping stalagmites and stalactites are (faintly) audible in the background. In the second half of the arrangement, a poignant new string theme is introduced, which adds both gravity and emotional depth to the soundscape.

The cinematic "Inspired" lives up to the promise of its name, as a kaleidoscopic array of synths and pads increasingly engulf the listener, as the song progresses. While the layered melodic themes continue to coalesce throughout the tune, the harmonious soundscape evokes visions of a terrestrial Eden.

Closing out the release, "Time Stream" is arguably Stan Chetverikov's most memorable downtempo production to date. Its indelibly beautiful lead theme remains haunting long after the song's conclusion and the breathtaking background music employs several seemingly "ancient" instruments that are rarely heard in electronic music scores.

1. Stan Chetverikov - Occasum (Original Mix) 5:24
2. Stan Chetverikov - Frozen (Original Mix) 3:38
3. Stan Chetverikov - Inspired (Original Mix) 2:51
4. Stan Chetverikov - Time Stream (Original Mix) 4:18