Claude9 - The Shadow single
Austin-based electronic artist Claude9 will soon be releasing his debut album 'Chords of Love' album, out March 28 via indie imprint New Human Music. As part of this synth-based journey, he now shares another gem - 'The Shadow', a Jean-Michel Jarre-eque slice of futuristic wonderment that showcases this relaxing nine-track record.
This new offering arrives on the heels of 'Clouds So Low', a soulful track with chilled feel-good vibes, tastefully blends Enoesque ambient music and downtempo trip-hop. Encapsulating the dreamy, rhythmic energy that defines much of the album Claude9 also offers a sneak-peek of the full album via a mini-live set, shared on video.
Weaving together ambient and downtempo electronica, 'Chords of Love' offers a seamless listening experience with six extended tracks and three shorter interlude pieces that flow effortlessly into one another, creating the feeling of one continuous work. This diverse sonic palette brings in everything from cicada field recordings to lush pads, drones, and a mix of real and synthesized vocals.
With the simple yet profound mantra of “Slow down, relax, and listen”, this is a gateway to a relaxed and healing journey. At the same time, it doesn’t shy away from moments of tension or layers of social commentary, adding depth to its soothing exterior. Two tracks are also graced by the unmistakable talent of Jorja Chalmers (Roxy Music, Bryan Ferry, Italians Do It Better), whose saxophone elevates the intensity and emotional resonance of this project.
Claude9 has been involved in the Austin music scene for several decades, both as a live performer and recording artist. As a keyboard player and singer, he has worked with Reggae acts Pressure, the Killer Bees, and Raggamassive, cutting his teeth to become a sought-after keyboard player. From there, he joined forces with hiphop-funk act Afrofreque, Supercreeps and Hail Marley.
Emerging in the late 90s as one of Austin's first electronic producers, Claude9 was involved in several well-received House music collaborations in the early 2000s. His background as a live musician brought authenticity to the dub and funk elements in his electronic compositions and, more recently, to his
collaboration with Noëlle Hampton (the Belle Sounds) and Ken Christensen (East Coast Boogiemen) in synth pop band XANIMAL.
As a producer at Claude9 Studios, Claude continues to produce and record internationally recognized music in the House and Downtempo genres, while still pushing limits and being an influential member of the ever changing Austin music community.
'The Shadow' is available exclusively via Bandcamp, where 'Clouds So Low' can also be found - it is also available from fine music platforms, including Apple Music and Spotify. Out March 28, the 'Chords of Love' album is now available for pre-order - it will be released digitally and on vinyl. That same evening, Claude9 will hold his record release party at Stargazer Bar in Austin.
