Few artists in the bass realm can create completely new sonic universes with their music. KOAN Sound, Culprate, False Noise and Alon Mor are names that come to mind when the words musical expedition are thrown around, but one name that sometimes falls under the radar, and wrongly so, is Hudson Lee. From manning Upscale, a label that showcases mind-boggling journeys from a plethora of similar-minded artists, to creating his own unique masterpieces, the Canadian producer has made it his mission to share exquisitely crafted works, no matter the origin.
Continuing upon this theme today, we get to experience Hudson Lee’s sophomore album in full via his label, and as one could expect, the twelve-track, fifty-two-minute Reflex Angle is a display of true sonic mastery. A follow-up to the equally-entertaining Headspaces from 2019, Reflex Angle builds upon the years of work that Hudson Lee has poured into his craft and culminates in a fantastic voyage through bass, melodies and textures.
Reflex Angle is not just a collection of individual songs slapped together to form an album – it’s a narrative told through sound that gives listeners a glimpse into the mind of a genius. Featuring tracks with longtime friends and frequent collaborators False Noise, Alexander Panos and Frequent, as well as nine solo works, the project spans a multitude of genres and styles that go beyond bass music without ever sounding disconnected or out of place; a skill that Hudson Lee et al. have all conquered gracefully. Massive, all-encompassing basses that wrap your entire soul in an oddly soothing fashion are as present as soft, complex melodies that will make you feel as if you are floating through delicate pink clouds. Hudson Lee manages to balance contrast perfectly in his album, creating an equilibrium between highs and lows throughout the ensemble.
Simply put, Reflex Angle is incredible. Don’t miss it below, and be sure to catch Upscale Fest happening on Twitch this weekend.
