It’s hard to believe that it was just a year ago when Blanke dropped what many regard to be his best work so far: the ‘Change & Decay EP’ on Zeds Dead’s Deadbeats Records. A fusion of the melodic and raw sound that the Australian-native Blanke is renowned for balancing, ‘Change & Decay’ both sparkled and slapped.
A year later, Blanke returns to Deadbeats with a sequel to his original work. Aptly titled ‘Change & Decay: The Fall’, the six-track record sees Blanke’s rawer alter ego shine, as thundering basslines, gritty synths and crisp percussion are welded into absolute heaters. ‘Welcome’ plays with innovative rhythms, while ‘Zero’ features immaculate sound design. The lead single ‘Shadow’ and EP-only ‘Dimension’ incorporate some melodic elements through vocal chops or synths, drawing together both beat and harmony.
Perhaps the most creative tune was the sophomore single, ‘Alchemy’, a drum-n-bass interpretation of an upbeat, cheerful melody – Blanke at his finest. The EP closes out with the rather evocative titular track, employing authentic strings and an ambient soundscape to slowly and passionately conclude the record.
‘Change & Decay: The Fall’ represents another fantastic addition to the Blanke discography, showcasing the raw while still keeping the melodic in play. It’s 23 minutes of insanity you do not want to miss.