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For years, that bloke from The Phantom of the Opera was the most famous mystery in a mask, yet in 2014 that reputation belongs to Aaron Jerome a.k.a SBTRKT. The masked musician first appeared on the scene back in 2009, clad in his tribal decoration, the musician became famed for creating innovative remixes of tracks by prolific artists such as M.I.A, Basement Jaxx and Radiohead, all while remaining anonymous behind his facade.
Curiosity began to circulate around this musician, who was busily, quietly working on a debut album that would change electro music for the future. His self titled release featured some of the most exciting, up and coming names in British urban music including Sampha, Little Dragon and Jessie Ware. A brooding, textured and experimental record which pushed boundaries and created new trends all between twelve tracks had critics and fans selling out SBTRKT's tours and shows. The musician often incorporated real musical instrumentals into his live show, along with the synth and artificial sounds used in most of his music, the performance is an ethereal experience of electro dance, often joined by vocalist Sampha.
His highly anticipated second album 'Wonder Where We Land' was released in October 2014 and featured further collaboration with Jessie Ware and Sampha yet new artists such as Ezra Koenig and Warpaint also collaborated with the talented producer to create yet more revolutionary electro. His live show has become momentous, a spectacle of light, sound and instrument unlike seeing any conventional DJ perform which left crowds at Reading & Leeds & Bestival in awe. With a contact list any indie aficionado would be jealous of and the backing of a creative label such as Young Turks, SBTRKT is assured to be travelling to more bizarre and brilliant places. The only question is, I wonder where he'll land?
SBTRKT is by no means typical. Rather than a band, they are a musical project. I think that's really cool. The venue where I saw this live performance was intimate, it had a really warm vibe. I guess in a way it was even sophisticated. Because of the diminutive space and the plethora of equipment the temperatures did rise, but it was by no means uncomfortable.
I found the lead vocalist appealing. His voice was unique but yet something about it was familiar. It was a surrealistic experience. The band wore masks, but their faces weren't completely concealed. I guess I would describe the masks as sort of tribal, like something from Africa. They were pretty and they were interesting to look at. They didn't distract from the music one bit. The guy on keyboards was a pro, just made his contributions appear easy and effortless. The audience was half and half, split. Some arose to dance without inhibitions while the remainder just danced in their seats and bobbed their heads to the beat. I happened to be in the latter just because I attended this particular show by myself and given I had no friends with me I felt a little shy to get up on my own. I kind of regret that though.
Regardless, I would suggest that if given the chance, you check out SBTRKT. Doesn't sound like anything on the mainstream radio stations at this time.