Rather staggeringly, Memory Palace marks John Christian's 19th release on Bandcamp! The electronic music composer and live performer is somewhat of a veteran of the local scene here in Reading, UK. Does this imply he has honed his craft? Well, let's find out…

Memory Palace is a three-track, ever-evolving, higher-state-of-consciousness inducing, wholly-electronic body of work. Synthesizers pulsate, undulate, ebb and flow; new textures weave in and out… All while drums and percussion arrive and leave, never taking over – just driving things along. John describes his works as "structured soundscapes" – that’s a pretty good definition.

This is music you can dream to. There are no words to distract your thoughts or sway your focus. Although the EP runs over 50 minutes, there are only three tracks. Each one takes its time. Like a full-water baptism, it allows for immersion!

These are pieces born out of a love of music technology. Constructed by – and for –live performance, the DAW (digital audio workstation) was not invited to this party. Rather, sequencers, synths, drum machines, and effects pedals alone are the tools of John's trade.

Track one, Tabula Rasa, features sparkly, shiny arpeggios and synth strings. It feels playful, optimistic.

Track two, Substantia Nigra, is more bassline-led, with beautiful poly-rhythms of synth lines atop. It builds to an almost industrial, yet vibrant and triumphant, crescendo. 

Remembrance, the final and darker track of the EP, starts with deep drones complemented by a fluttering, staccato synth line. For me, as layer upon layer builds up, it evokes images of a not-yet-made science fiction movie; a young couple running from danger, across an unknown cityscape, out-smarting their would-be captors time and again.

As you might have gathered, Memory Palace is not music to dance to. Each of the tracks is a journey in its own right. Musical motifs stay with you for a time – then are morphed into another. These transitions are always tastefully, skillfully, subtly executed. 

This recording perhaps ought to be consumed in a different setting to your normal listening habits. Although contradictory, I think it deserves more focus (for a genre inherently so repetitive), so as to enjoy it and not miss the details, and yet less focus, giving space to let your inner thoughts be carried to new places.

In any case, if you love electronic music, and like it when the rule book is thrown out, this one's definitely for you.

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You can keep up with John Christian on his Bandcamp.