FROST, aka Kent-based drummer and electronic musician Dale Frost, is in the midst of an ambitious and intriguing project called Perm Octo Clavè Induction Set. Eventually, the complete project will feature 10 tracks, but he’s releasing them in pairs, available digitally or on beautifully crafted 5″ lathe-cut vinyl. Getting technical about the method and intention of the project, he says:
“Centred on a constructed binary rhythmic framework, the collection encompasses 10 songs released as five separate records throughout 2021. Each song explores a unique iteration of a rhythmic motif, with live instrumentation in dialogue with sequenced electronics through various formats.”
The first two segments arrived in July, and today he follows them up with “0oo00o0o Clavè C” and “00o0oo0o Clavè D”, which, despite being crafted in the same method as “Clavè A” and “Clavè B”, take us to entirely different worlds.
On “Clavè C”, his use of whimsical synths is inviting, reminiscent of the kind of evocative background music used on a fantastical animation. As the light but rigorous drumming clicks in, this image starts to shift, and it feels like setting off through an enchanted forest, spirits whooping out amidst the distant trees. With the addition of more bell-like tones and spattering drums, it feels like emerging into a bright, sun-drenched clearing.
“Clavè D” again uses synths and drums, but in a plinking, grooving way that transports you somewhere more tropical. That FROST can create such evocative soundscapes with minimal instrumentation is testament to the precision of his work and artistry.
Listen to both below, or on your preferred streaming platform.
If you’re still on the fence, just take a look at the beautifully hand-lathed 5” records he’s crafted for each individual track, and see if you can deny that you want to listen to whatever it has inside – you can order them from his Bandcamp.
With six more tracks from Perm Octo Clavè Induction Set arriving in the coming months, make sure to follow FROST on Twitter and Instagram for the latest.
