Stefan Goldmann - Vector Rituals (2022)

Proprietary rhythm: Vector Rituals sees techno polymath Stefan Goldmann constructing polymetric rites of percussion. Synthesized from the ground up, metric properties, timbral characteristics, dynamic expression and microrhythmic positioning are shaped by a layered multitude of simple control voltage functions. The result is an assembly of abstract dances ranging from the intricate to the powerful.

Near-humanoid behaviour emerges from liquid patterns, laid out and brought to life by the freewheeling encounter of modular waveforms and snappy envelopes. Sounds evoke metallic textures – ringing, scraping, subduing – and virtual shapes, ranging from tiny spikes to vast surfaces.

Some of the parametric relationships employed are as loose as to imply chance drifts. Others lock in with strict regularity as in the 13 vs. 17 pattern of opening track 'Nayba'. Or consider the strictly repetitive, yet highly asymmetric sequence of 'Yukagir' where each metric step has its own uniquely irregular duration. The drums of 'Tiksi' and 'Valkumey' oscillate between noisily percussive and chiming tonal qualities. The center piece of this collection is certainly 'Ayon', with its multiple autonomous as well as highly agile timelines. Its constituent layers break away in radial fashion and fall back together at widely spaced points of congregation.

All compositions herein are powerful proof of the unlimited capacity of electronic music to yield new principles of organisation and to solidify their expression into clear-cut gestalt.