Download Album HERE
GAJOOB Review by Briyan Frederick:
Dead Goldfish Ensemble’s music was always a welcome treat in my GAJOOB mailbox. The brainchild of Steve Hartwell, this project was a staple in the vibrant cassette culture from 1985 to 1993. “Eye to Eye” is a quintessential offering from this era, enveloping listeners in a hypnotic blend of looping and evolving short delay synth figures—a hallmark of process or serial music.
Hartwell’s meticulous craftsmanship is evident throughout the album. Using early sequencers like the Roland MC-202 and the Akai X7000, he creates soundscapes that are both pristine and otherworldly. Each track on “Eye to Eye” builds upon itself, with layers interweaving seamlessly, guiding the listener through a labyrinth of synthetic sounds that remain captivating and fresh even three decades after its original release.
The beauty of Dead Goldfish Ensemble’s work lies in its ability to transport you into a meditative state where time feels elastic. There’s an almost tactile quality to the sounds, as if you can reach out and touch the ripples of each sequence as they cascade past. Whether you’re a longtime fan of cassette culture or a newcomer, “Eye to Eye” is an essential listen, providing a mesmerizing glimpse into the innovative spirit of the late 80s underground music scene.
The last track in the 4-track album is a departure of lush field recordings of nature coupled with an airy synth pad backdrop. It enfolds and evolves over 15 minutes into nothing less than a mesmerizing piece.
For those interested in delving deeper into the making of this album and the artistry behind it, more information can be found on the Peeved Records website maintained by Steve himself.
He continues to make Dead Goldfish Ensemble music which is now being released on Youtube as it’s created.
Media: cassette.
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