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| | Arts Calendar / February 17 / Concerts |
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 A search for mind immersing, spine tingling tracks would land many stumbling upon Emancipator. Between the countless tour dates, festivals, and studio time, Emancipator (aka Doug Appling), the Portland, OR based electronic producer, has retained a steady rise of success over the past few years. Playing sold out venues, to the delight of his faithful fans, 2012 proved to be a year of expansion and growth for this talented young musician. Emancipator's debut album Soon It Will Be Cold Enough, a wintry mix of intricate beats and atmospheric textures featuring violinist Cindy Kao and guest vocalist Thao Nguyen, was self-released in 2006, later re-released by Japanese label Hyde Out Recordings in 2008. Appling made his live debut in 2009 opening for Bonobo, and toured Japan the same year. Second album Safe in the Steep Cliffs arrived in 2010, featuring increased live instrumentation and more ambitious arrangements and programming. Remixes, featuring reworked versions of Emancipator tracks by Blockhead, Big Gigantic, and others, was released in 2011. Appling founded his own label Loci Records in 2012, releasing music by friends such as Tor and Stèv. Known for its etheric melodies, immaculately smooth samples, and addictive drum beats, Emancipator's music has captivated a diverse audience across the globe. One might struggle to place a finger on what makes the music so addictive, but would undoubtedly return to the underlying feeling of balance and connection. Dusk to Dawn, Emancipator's third album and first to feature violin from frequent live collaborator Ilya Goldberg, was released by Loci Records in 2013. The music of this album promises listeners a nostalgic return to the soulful integration of organic hip hop and symphonic layers that first captivated his audience. "Minor Cause", the first single off Dusk to Dawn proved a buzz-worthy track with its' video premier on MTV's Hive - followed by an uproar of enthused listeners wanting more. Trusting his roots yet simultaneously evolving, Emancipator's fresh new cultivation is nothing short of a renaissance. Appling continued touring with a full-band, Emancipator Ensemble, often co-headlining festivals with artists such as Pretty Lights and ODESZA. More info
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