ALBUM REVIEWS

ALBUM OF THE MONTH

Auscultation III

100% Silk

Multi-faceted and prolific Portland-based producer Joel Shanahan is perhaps best known for the upfront house sound of his Golden Donna alias. Yet, it is under his somewhat more elusive pseudonym, Auscultation that he is able to explore a more expansive and freer sound. Four years after his last album as Auscultation, 2014’s magnificent , he returns to the project to once again take things to a more introspective, deeper and slower place. Over six tracks, the US producer takes expertly meanders through varying moods and dream-like states that bring you tighter and tighter to the record’s core. This sense of intimacy adds to the cosy and inviting atmosphere that lasts throughout. pockets of ambience float between fuzzed-out house and laidback techno to create a soulful and contented serenity that flows with ease and natural momentum. A wonderfully immersive record that is full of glowing colours and comforting warmth, is everything that continues to make Auscultation Joel Shanahan’s most eagerly awaited diversion.