Kublai - Free Flow EP
Introducing some fresh talent to the CIA catalogue, we welcome Kublai for his first release on the label – the eclectic ‘Free Flow EP’.
True to his city, the Manchester based producer draw inspirations from a diverse palette and his EP is a testament to this, showcasing his sound via four tracks representing four different styes.
After pushing things forward during lockdown with releases on Goldfat and Vandal (alongside fellow CIA artist Minor Forms), the ‘Free Flow EP’ marks the next development for Kublai; which, with the guidance and encouragement of Total Science, has led him to explore new avenues in DnB.
“Initially I didn't plan this as an EP, but after writing a lot of liquid, I wanted to try my hand at some heavier sounds... I've just always wanted to make music that I love to hear, that's got soul; whether it be the heavier side of things or the more liquid side of things.”
Setting things off is ‘Free Flow’ as Kublai experiments with different types of percussion, atop of uplifting pads and vocals. A driving bassline carries throughout, leading neatly into ‘Emerald Funk’, where some tech funk influences come into play on a darker stepper that’s seeping with groove.
Switching the vibe again, even to his own surprise, ‘Revelation’ sees Kublai impressively exploring on a jungle tip for the first time, with rolling breaks, vocal cuts and switching bass, before completing the EP with the piano strewn, sultry sounds of ‘Young Soul’ – a full circle back to his soulful roots.