Flowjob – The Asian Persuation

Following the release of Flowjob’s debut album Support Normality at the beginning of 2006, Iboga quietly released a digital single by the group late into the year. Featuring two previously released songs and one exclusive track, this single arrived without fanfare; one day it was simply in stock at several of the leading psytrance download shops.

The Asian Persuation was previously released on the Trancer’s Guide To The Galaxy Vol. 2 compilation, a CD packaged and sold alongside the 2006 edition of the print publication of the same name. It begins with a weak beat, but the rhythm is considerably sharper by the time the third minute mark is passed. Luscious progressive melodies soon emerge, conjuring a sparkling day-time vibe. Dreamy vocals—conceivably the source of the title—can be heard in some sequences. Surging atmospheric pads and a melodic reprise in the final minutes serves to keep this pleasant song relatively engaging. Not bad.

SOS is the sole track exclusive to this release. Close in style to much of Support Normality, it might have been saved from the virtual cutting room floor. Light hints of atmospheric melodies and an obscure usage of sunny guitar infuse this creation with a carefree mood. Some may consider it to be bland, while others might appreciate this for its subtle warmth. Personally, I find it a bit vapid; the group has much better work out there.

Cloud Politics was originally released on the Tribal Vision compilation Lime Light in 2005, so it does not sound very much like the other two. The mildly tribal rhythms are tight and enjoyable, awash with deep bass-heavy pads. This particular track operates on a very subliminal level, easing through the moments with an smooth progression. A notable break near the end introduces some sleek work with the atmospheric elements; vibrant overtones swirl around in subtle ways before achieving closure. It sounds tougher than the others here, perhaps due to its age—but that’s not a bad thing.

Flowjob’s first digital release on Iboga is nothing special; this motley collection of tracks, although adequate, seem like leftovers. It should be enough to appease fans of the group (and the Iboga sound in general), but there are no real stand-out tracks to be heard here. Listeners interested in Flowjob’s smooth and sunny style might enjoy this digital single anyhow; it’s certainly not bad—merely average.