The Thousands

The sonic architecture of dub – an emphasis on rhythm, booming, fuzzy bottom end, and the hypnotic, spatial sculpting of sound – has travelled far and wide since its inception in Jamaica in the late 60s. This architecture has had an undoubtable influence on Wisconsin-based Peaking Lights’ haunting, spaced out sound.

The duo of Indra Dunis and Aaron Coyes has put out various EPs and singles on the crème de la crust of US-based independent labels including Night People, Not Not Fun, and Earjerk records. Having well and truly earned their stripes in these short recording formats, 936 is Peaking Lights’ first official foray into LP territory.

Much like label mate Sun Araw, Peaking Lights are masters of hazy, wobbly, tape-based dance music that is highly hypnotic. Album opener ‘Synthy’ is a good example of this meditative effect, with its crunchy synths, militantly rhythmic drum machine, and wavering bass line. The dub influence is particularly strong on the repetitive muted guitar and bouncy bass of ‘All The Sun That Shines’. The whimsical, bittersweet vocals of ‘Hey Sparrow’ are a great sonic reminder that all that glitters ain’t gold.

936 is reminiscent of a crisp, clear, pink dusk where the trees are starting to fade from green to yellow. A long way from the humid environs of Jamaica, Peaking Lights have introduced an Autumnal hue to the multifaceted shades of dub.