Peverelist - Better Ways of Living / Fighting Without Fighting

Artist: Peverelist
Title: Better Ways of Living / Fighting Without Fighting
Label: Punch Drunk Records
Catalog #: drunk017
Genre: Bass/Dubstep/Jungle
Release Date: July 19, 2010
Rating: 7.5


Tom Ford has a well rounded approach to bass music, drawing influence from dub, jungle, and techno. As the manager of Rooted Records and owner of Punch Drunk Records, Ford is key player in Bristol, a hotbed of young talent anchored by a historic sound system culture. Ford's latest release under his Peverelist moniker is forward thinking yet heavily indebted to the early 90's.


"Better Ways of Living" starts with a clattering kick and snare groove, as whooshes of flange creep in, an intricate ride pattern builds momentum. There is an understated stab but the ravey pan flute pad is the star, both silly and incredibly effective. At 137 bpm, the comfortably inhabits the space in between techno and dubstep, a zone explored by Martyn, Scuba and Shackleton as well.


"Fighting Without Fighting" is the more abrasive of the two tracks, the drums are locked in a constant struggle that results in haltingly arhythmic moments. The central harmonic elements are a distorted, breathy chord sequence and an Aphex Twin-like melody that feels a bit repetitive. The ADD drums harken back to jungle's infancy but the overall effect is not 'retro'.

Peverelist has a distinctive voice in bass music and his mixes have a warmth and clarity that is refreshing in age of squashed and hyped masters.