TAPE 1/TAPE 2

In the Felbm project, Dutch multi-instrumentalist Eelco Topper
steps away from his previous synthesiser-laden sounds as
Falco Benz, towards a much looser, simpler and sketch-like
approach. Picking up a number of acoustic instruments, he began
experimenting with a Tascam 4-track tape recorder and allowed
these sketches to flourish.
The result is Tape 1 and Tape 2, a two-part project stretching
across fifteen tracks - encompassing fluttering piano melodies,
subtle jazz drums, rumba rhythms and soothing ambience. The
jazz element links back to Topper's childhood. "I grew up playing
drums, switched to playing piano at sixteen and in the meantime I
produced hip-hop beats," he recalls. "I went to study jazz piano at
the Utrecht Conservatory, which I finished with pain and effort... I
was interested more in electronic and present-day music."
This mix of being rooted in traditional jazz composition whilst
searching for something more contemporary is the perfect
encapsulation of these recordings. Tape 1's jazz roots are palpable
and as things move into Tape 2, it takes on a neo-classical,
psychedelic soundscape and cinematic quality.