Suitdancer, according to creator Marcus Harris (of production duo Tone Control) is an attempt to distill the vibe of the "electronic music, inherited soul records and cult VHS films I consumed as a kid".
In this exploration into late night, leftfield territory, Suitdancer carefully collates searing synthesisers, obscure samples and broken drum machines in a heady, yet danceable style. To round off the EP, Mr. Beatnick steps up to provide a Berlin inspired dub for those who like their house music raw.
This debut from Suitdancer is the first of three EP's that accompany mixes and videos that explore a spectrum of influences. Marcus absorbed audio inspiration for this long - gestating project from seminal producers including: Carl Craig, James Stinson, King Tubby, Giorgio Moroder, Conny Plank and Nile Rogers. Contemporaries of the Suitdancer sound include John Talabot, Luke Abbott, Gold Panda and Pye Audio Corner.
Marcus Harris, is one half of Tone Control, who have been progressively releasing their own brand of electronic soul for over 8 years, appealing to house music and leftfield DJ's alike. Following the release of their critically acclaimed "Illusion" single, much lauded by Theo Parrish and Kerri Chandler, the duo went on to find wider appeal with their smash "Take Me Away" ft. Adeola Ranson, and subsequent singles "Without Your Love" ft. James B. Coleman and "Starting with Me" with Robert Owens. Marcus' production experience began twenty years ago with the teenage purchase of a third - hand Atari ST, Korg synth and Akai sampler, and was introduced to Cubase by Photek. At this time he also met Simon Finnegan, and the friendship and concepts underpinning Tone Control were shaped. After studying Sound and Video Production at Salford University and alongside a career in supporting youth music, video and radio, Marcus honed his sound in a London studio base with Simon, which led to the birth of the Tone Control label. Now based in Madrid, Marcus continues to produce for Tone Control.
Mr. Beatnick is one of few hip-hop producers to newly enter the house and techno fold in the past few years to have really turned heads. After a stint in Lausanne, warming up for artists like J Dilla and Madlib he moved to London to become quickly immersed in CDR and the nascent beat scene, alongside artists like Paul White and Bullion. Having worked with artists like Ahu, Azymuth and Atjazz, it was the epic, string-laden "Synthetes", released in 2011, which proved the breakthrough moment for this talented beat-smith.
Written by Marcus Harris, published by Tone Control Music, administered by Haripa Music UK. All instruments performed by Marcus Harris. Produced by Marcus Harris. Mixed by Matthew Bandy. B1 remixed by Mr. Beatnick. Artwork by Haydn Davies.