PREMIERE: Smoakland & just john Find Creative Spark in ‘Darkness’

by A. Samuel Lewis

British Columbia’s John Mitchell is no stranger to the dark eclectic periphery of experimental bass. Diligently polishing the scope of his production caliber under the guise just john for the past 3 years, Mitchell possesses an enigmatic capacity for conceiving tactful soundscapes, utilizing minimal percussion and cogent wobbles as depicted in standalone singles such as ‘This’ or ‘God Damn’.

Cut from the catalog of Perfect Number, Mitchell’s debut SpicyBois EP, ‘Darkness’ presents an opportunity for the styles of just john & smoakland to synthesize as one. “We share a similar vision and proclivity for experimental bass, and I think our styles both really shine through on this track,” Mitchell reflects on working with the Bay Area duo.

Hypnotic echoing lays the foundation for the track, weaving mesmerizing energy as it begins to unfold. A precipitous rush dissipates the melody briefly as a fleeting vocal sample thrusts the track into a rhythmic sequence of wobbles. Crisp beat breaks reveal hidden fringes of resonating frequencies and digitized mixdowns within entrancing energy soundscape of the track before a final momentous reprise imparts a final eruption of turbulent bass.

‘Darkness’ is an immaculate personification of just john’s virtuous production craft and boundless creative dexterity. Demonstrating Mitchell’s uncanny ability to work cohesively with other styles, the track depicts remarkable depth and a riveting flow that cunningly foreshadows the acuity that permeates the entire Perfect Number EP.

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