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LA-based electronic producer Shlohmo is known for his brooding, underground aesthetic and distorted experimental production. In March 2013, he released “Put It” on his EP entitled Laid Out. In the song, lo-fi synths and syncopated beats turn into a dark, atmospheric body.
A deep, droning bass provides a bold foundation for the track, while silky chords lay sensually on top. The faint vocals, which Shlohmo keeps at an almost unnoticeable volume, are not the center of attention. Instead, the screeching synth melody is the focus. Many of the classic elements of Shlohmo’s musical style can be heard in “Put It,” including understated bass drops, a slow swinging percussion, and dissonant chords.
Shlohmo’s aim in Laid Out is to create a “melodramatic and overly melancholic vibe.” The musical concept of the EP – “romanticizing sadness, death, unlucky numbers, and banners with nothing to say” – is clear in “Put It.” Shlohmo uses minor chords and a slow tempo to develop the theme of death, which is his main musical influence. As the song progresses, he introduces additional layers of glitchy beats and obscure textures, persistently building tension. Just as the production gets heavier, the song dies back down to a low hum.
“Put It” represents Shlohmo’s niche brand of electronic music that is abstract, depressing, and emotive. The song’s motif of tragedy is characterized by its abrasive drumbeats, which is meant to “make people feel something, even if that something isn’t good.” Ultimately, Shlohmo ties together offbeat rhythms and organic samples with the goal of creating an ominous, unexplainable aura of mystery.
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I had a chat with Shlohmo in London in May – check out the interview here.
