Over the past decade, Bristol-based producer Hodge has garnered a handsome twenty EPs on practically all of Bristol and some of the UK’s finest underground techno labels. Last month, he debuted his first album Shadow In Blue on Fabric’s in house Houndstooth imprint. Having previously collaborated with artists like Laurel Halo [see zweikommasieben #3 and #16], Peder Mannerfelt, and Randomer to name a few, Hodge is no stranger to experimentation. He takes to the LP format with poise, utilising the opportunity to showcase his versatility in sound as a producer. The record is said to be influenced by “sci-fi books, old prog-rock album covers, old school raves, and most importantly, from Hodge’s love of gardening & plants!”

Today we are delighted to present to you the video premiere of “Canopy Shy”—the opening track on the record. The short sketch is an ambient gateway—a gust of sound whirls while birds chirp, and atmospheric pads lend a sense of organic texture. The video created by Felix Geen features saturated mud flats paired with an aerial rendering of Elephant & Castle. The well-known South London area around a major traffic junction, which has seen mass urban development over the past couple of decades. A large 3D cube begins to bloom from a central point, consuming it’s surroundings as it expands outwards. A similar structure exists on the E&C roundabout today [a Michael Faraday Memorial, which houses a London Underground electrical substation; a popular urban myth falsely claims that Aphex Twin once lived there]. As a harp sounds, wild garlic (which is currently in season) suddenly blossoms on the mud flats, in bright contrast to the industrial cityscape. A nod to nature somehow thriving against the vast urbanised odds, and Hodge’s interest in the gentrification process of the area.

Shadow In Blue is out now on Houndstooth. Get a copy here.