Strategy - The Babbling Brook (2020)

Strategy is the singular, long-running alias of Portland mainstay Paul Dickow. Originally conceived in 1999, Strategy came of age during the early heyday of Portland’s emergence as a hotbed of experimental DIY music culture, and has grown over a 20-year adventure. Despite the sense of ‘intention’ conveyed by Strategy’s alias, his musical creations originate in unexpected surprises and visceral exploration and discovery. Strategy’s omnivorous, unpredictable, multi-directional approach to genre has made him something of a cipher; while some artists use multiple aliases to cover diverse musical ground, Strategy’s discography is a puzzle consisting of interlocking and hybridized aspects of ambient, dub, techno, house, audio-visual performance, and noise. Strategy has emerged as an enduring figure with a strong cult following and sustained acclaim from music makers, DJs, and critics. With appearances at international festivals like Mutek, Sonar, New Forms, and Decibel, and 20 years as direct support for some of the most challenging international artists visiting Portland, he is considered both an ambassador for and champion of Portland’s electronic music community.