Joris Voorn and Michiel Borstlap - Sapphire (Spectrum) [Balearic]
- The Slow Music Movement
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Holland's Joris Voorn doesn't have anything to prove on the house and techno front, having helped anchor the Dutch scene from his studio and behind the decks for longer than he probably cares to remember. Being the son of a composer and a music teacher certainly didn't hurt his career; his studies and work as an architect before he went into music full-time, less so. Perhaps age is finally catching up, or it's just his restless spirit, but Melatonin - his new album - ditches the dance floor to explore the slower end of the electronic spectrum and help soundtrack the afterparty.
The album is a great listen for anyone with an interest in classic-sounding electronica, but for me the standout is "Sapphire", his collaboration with the equally lauded pianist Michiel Borstlap who's worked with the likes of Herbie Hancock, the Metropole Orchestra and Iggy Pop - something not many musicians can say!
Ticking percussion and ambient pads warm the track up and invite Borstlap to take his stool behind the keys, an unhurried kick drum eventually spurring him to infuse the machine music with his sun-blessed keys; the maestro crafting a classic-sounding nineties trance refrain to anchor his more free-spirited, contemporary piano lines. Voorn, to his credit, knows when to sit back and let others shine; content to let the percussive loops and gentle ambient breeze elevate and usher the piano through the speakers into the listening space, soothing tired minds and raising spirits as it goes. Come for "Sapphire" and, if you like the vibe, stay for the album - you won't be disappointed.
Playlist Companion
Find these gents in the Slow Balearic Playlist.