Gradient - Dub Stories (2024)

Gradient has been releasing music for 15 years now. To celebrate this milestone, Dub Stories is here to crown this achievement of dub techno in its purest form. Spanning two CDs and containing twenty meticulously crafted tracks, this release encapsulates the essence of dub techno while showcasing Gradient's evolution over the years.

CD1 opens with 'Dub Story 1,' a vibrant track that sets the tone with bright, engaging tones. It flows seamlessly into 'Dub Story 2' which evokes a sensation of airy ascension, almost as if you are taking flight. 'Dub Story 3' brings a classic dub techno vibe reminiscent of Juan Atkins' 'Starlight,' with its timeless and atmospheric elements. 'Dub Story 4' pushes creative boundaries with its innovative use of chords, creating a dynamic melodic pattern that cascades over the rhythm. The brisk and beautiful atmosphere of 'Dub Story 5' feels akin to living in clouds, offering a refreshing escape. 'Dub Story 6' pays homage to traditional dub roots, grounding the album with its authentic and rich sound. The gems keep coming with the strong 'Dub Story 7', while the melodic evolution in 'Dub Story 8' is euphoric, continuously developing while holding on to your attention tightly. The minimalistic approach in 'Dub Story 9' presents the deepest dub, characterized by its clean, hypnotic production. CD1 concludes with 'Dub Story 10,' a track that epitomizes Gradient's ability to create a trance-like state with its refined production techniques.

CD2 starts with 'Dub Story 11,' a track that builds energy with deep bass notes and an evocative soundscape, invoking a sense of nostalgia. 'Dub Story 12' comes in hot while the celestial melodies in 'Dub Story 13' dance beautifully against a firm bass drum, creating a heavy but very balanced aura. 'Dub Story 14' stands out with its strong, assertive tone, imparting a heavier emotional weight. Not to be overlooked is 'Dub Story 15'. We think you will want to hear one track without any description from us which is in the spirit of Gradient naming the tracks but not hinting at what is inside. "Lighter" and more minimalistic, 'Dub Story 16' channels a Cologne dub techno style, offering a serene yet rhythmic break while 'Dub Story 17' is sure to create many introspective moments. 'Dub Story 18' utilizes heavy delays and fazed-out echoes, building a light tension that keeps the listener engaged. 'Dub Story 19' is a heady piece that alters the mind with its deep, contemplative layers. The album closes with 'Dub Story 20,' where grand strings create an emotional and grandiose finale, leaving a lasting impression of Gradient's masterful storytelling through sound.

Dub Stories is a well-produced and fitting tribute to Gradient's career in the dub techno realm. His style is a shining example of the quality in the style and we wish him well to another 15 years of great music. Greyscale's 40th album is a coincidental part worth mentioning. We can't think of another way to celebrate than to have Gradient here for that milestone.