Justin Morgan first emerged in 2002 with a CDR album
and a split EP, both released on Cincinnati, OH, imprint
Sonicterror. A year later, Morgan returned with Formulae,
a collection of laidback electronic compositions which
was later given the remix treatment in the hands of
acts of Wisp, Ochre,
The Gasman or Sonicterror
label owner Enduser.
In the two and a half years since the release of Formulae,
Morgan has had tracks featured on numerous compilations
from labels as diverse as Skam, Fu Man Chaw, Terminal
Dusk or WATMM, set up his own record label, Soho Six,
and recorded a follow up to his debut album.
Morgan spent part of his formative years in various
indie rock bands before turning to hip-hop for a while.
This provided him with the opportunity to experiment
with electronic music. Although Warm Human Antennae
builds on the atmospheres of Formulae,
Morgan clearly returns to his roots by adding guitar
textures throughout, at times, as on the opening line
of Wear Away The Filter or New Religion,
or as a backbone to the melody of June, in
obvious fashion. This contributes to giving his music
a much more earthy and defined grain. Tracks such as
Grumble Grumble clearly benefit from this new
focus. Combined with a newfound confidence in his work,
this helps asserting Morgan’s style and allows
him to freely explore new grounds. Even when treated
and buried under layers of electronic elements, these
added textures comprehensively alter the general ambience
of the record.
Warm Human Antennae doesn’t however represent
a complete departure from previous releases. Here, Morgan
builds on the core structure of Formulae,
refines his soundscapes and shows more assurance with
melodies, often reaching towards more complex and intricate
formations. Yet, here, Morgan dares going down new avenues
by combining his musical roots with his more recent
approach, eventually creating a rather consistent piece
of work, and still manages to maintain the focus of
his work all the way through.
3.7/5 |
