Impostor – Acoustic Niche Separation
“Acoustic Niche Separation”, Impostor’s seventh album, is a true Cyberfunk classic in the making. The multi-instrumentalist has perfected the ability to seamlessly blend electronic music with elements of funk, disco, and hip-hop, delivering an impressive album. The album, consisting of fifteen meticulously crafted tracks, showcases Impostor’s versatility as both producer and musician. The influence of Daft Punk and Kraftwerk is present in the tight arrangements, but Impostor manages to give it his contemporary twist that keeps everything fresh and modern.
An absolute standout early in the album is “Do You Love Me?”, a track carried by an irresistible slap bass that perfectly merges with the vocoder vocals. These vocoder effects form a common thread throughout the album but reach their peak in this track. It gives the song a futuristic edge while remaining deeply rooted in funk.
“Jump to It (1nce Again)” is without doubt the most accessible track on the record. With its cleverly placed samples and infectious rhythm, this track has everything it takes to become a summer hit. Then there’s “Cocoa Funk Shuffle”, a track that could have come straight from St. Germain’s studio. The track breathes the same refined, laid-back atmosphere we know from the French producer, with a beautiful mix of electronic and organic elements creating a delightful lounge experience. It shows that Impostor has much more to offer than just danceable electrofunk.
The title track “Acoustic Niche Separation” is yet another highlight of the album, of which there are many. The organic instruments blend seamlessly with electronic elements, resulting in a hypnotic composition that you’ll want to listen to multiple times to discover all its subtle layers.
The album concludes with an ingenious summary in “Single Mixes Medley”, a straight-up tribute to Daft Punk in an authentic 12″ mix, and “Acoustic Niche Separation Reprise”, which together form a perfect conclusion to this musical odyssey. The production is crystal clear and detailed, which is all the more impressive given the project’s DIY nature. ‘Acoustic Niche Separation’ proves that electronic music can still surprise and innovate without losing its danceable character. Perhaps one of the best albums I’ve had the pleasure of discovering in recent years, and that’s saying something! (9/10) (Way Past Cool)
