COMBINATOR “Re//Combinator”

Self-released, 2022

Music: Experimental Rock / Progressive Rock
Website: http://facebook.com/combinatormusic
Duration: 31:00 (7 tracks)
Country: U.S.A

When people complain about how saturated the music industry has turned out to be, the only response I give them is “You are not looking beyond what you see”. Not coming off as an Elitist, but there is a lot of music out there, albeit hidden from plain sight. In fact, there are albums that when recognised will surely place well within the hearts of those who prefer mainstream media rock. Combinator, an experimental project from Seattle’s own Sean Fairchild will surely fare well among the top progressive albums released this year. The reason is the seamless integration of multiple genres – more of it ahead.

Before we head into the tracks, it is important to understand what pushed Sean to become the multi-genre musical innovator he is now. Born abroad, Sean has seen places from Malaysia, France, China, and Japan before finally getting settled in Seattle, US. His diverse geographical background, in my opinion, has very much influenced his sound – I will share instances of the same. But, his intent, in general, was to create a fusion between Metal, Progressive, Funk, Synth and Electronica. The EP, “Re//Combinator” perfectly showcases it.

A total of 4 originals and 3 Remix tracks, “Re//Combinator” is a treat for all those who like “futuristic” sounding albums. The first artist that came to my mind when I heard the EP was Algorithm – the only difference being Algorithm circling that DnB genre, while Sean just mixes pretty much everything. The first track “Guest In Your Own” is very catchy and you can hear a lot of elements in the backdrop. If there is one specific instrument that shines brighter than others it would be the Bass. Bass notes are very juicy and blend well with Sean’s vocals and electronic beats.

“Things That Should” has one of the best bass openings that I have ever heard. I am very particular when it comes to Bass, as I am not an intellect “know it” musician, but this song just taught me how important Bass can be. While I thought the song will become repetitive over time, it gave me a surprise by transitioning to a mellow section before exploding into the same bass intro towards the end. A very strong track.

If you notice, I never mentioned any of the above tracks as the best, though the overall experience one gets from them are over the moon. Because “Hide and Seek” stole the thunder for me. It is a very simple track and doesn’t have anything to offer until the 3-minute mark. Till then it is Sean singing “Hide and Seek” in a very catchy manner. A nice track to transition to the last original track “Cartoon Character Child”. For me, this track is on the same level to ” Hide and Seek”. The thing that stands out on this track is the outro and how the main note fades slowly and then exits to the remixes of the album.

“Re//Combinator” is one of those albums that will surely register more plays – and definitely something that I will plug it and forget for hours! The experience one will get from this EP is addictive and you will be compelled to put it on repeat. I can’t say much about the remixes, but the original tracks – straight 10! The album will be out on June 17th, and I am curious to see the reception it gets!

Tracklist:

1. Guest In Your Own Skin
2. Things That Should Be
3. Hide and Seek
4. Cartoon Character Child
5. Respira (Jesse Holt Club Mix)
6. Respira (Jesse Holt Chill Mix)
7. Through the Fog (Chi:Child Mix) [BONUS]

Line-up:

Sean Fairchild – bass/vocals/synths/programming