Samm Bennett and Haruna Ito, known collectively as Skist are an electronic duo based in Tokyo, Japan. Bennett comes from a NY improv and free jazz background and this is evident on many of the abstract and oddly rhythmic pieces captured on this their most recent release. Likewise, Ito's background is also deeply rooted in the world of avant music, her work as a producer landing her alongside Otomo Yoshihide and his Ground Zero project. Between them, Bennett and Ito have amassed an impressive resume and this joint experience comes to fruition on this release.
Characterised by tightly programmed but often organic sounding rhythmic patterns, hinted melodies and treated vocals, Skist's sound is one that remains outside the usual realm of electronica and experimental electronics. There's a unique tone to their music that's perhaps directly a result of the backgrounds and personal histories of the group's members.
Lyrically speaking the record is quite visual and each phrase tends to create a variety of images that are coloured by the musical accompaniments. At the core of this release are two innovative minds, focused and interested in the ignored potentials of combination, juxtaposition, narrative flow and controlled sonic experimentalism.