Music
Solaris
Proper RecordsUMCLP077
Drum & Bass
2x12"
Pre-order - 31/05/2024
£34.16 (£40.99 incl. VAT)
Originally issued on Science/Virgin in September 2000, Solaris
consolidated Rupert Parkes' role as an unmistakable force within the
realm of underground dance, wrongfooting some of his audience by
moving on from the mathematical drum and bass of his debut, Modus
Operandi - This re-issue is presented here with scrupulous attention to
the detail of its original UK first pressing and is available on two 140gm LPs.
Modus Operandi had been released in 1997 and was both a critical and
commercial success, underlining Photek as something of a shadowy leading
figure in the world of drum and bass, after his apprenticeship in the preceding
years with Metalheadz. Solaris, appearing three years later was eagerly
anticipated; it found Photek playing with form and genre.
Glamorama, with its heavily echoed treatment of artist Marie- Jos Jongerius'
voice sounds not unlike something from David Byrne and Brian Eno's classic
cutups of My Life In The Bush of Ghosts. Where Solaris departs from its predecessor
is the beautiful deep house of ‘Mine To Give’ and ‘Can't Come Down’ both featuring
Chicago legend Robert Owens on vocals that added heart to Photek's techno
soul. However, as if to silence his critics, the relentless eight-and-a half minutes
of Infinity showed that few could push the boundaries of drum and bass as could
Photek.
Photek is now is an established film and television composer in Hollywood.
However, his work is fondly remembered and greatly respected.