Embodying the essence of that underground sound, Saka has once again proved himself as a force to be reckoned with in the electronic scene. Known for his innovative artistry, the rising bass producer repping Hong Kong has formulated a style that can best be described as leftfield or out-of-the-box bass music. Blending a diverse palette of sounds with wonky basslines, swirling soundscapes, and otherworldy beats, his records create a sonic experience that not only defies expectations but is powerfully transcendent and beautifully chaotic. Of course, his latest EP, Monomyth, is no different.
Released on Friday, July 5, through Of The Trees’ Memory Palace, Monomyth is a six-track soul-stirring adventure like no other. Fusing experimental bass with the virtues of Chinese culture, Saka takes listeners on a captivating journey through sound filled with peril, struggle, and transformation.
Saka depicts the hero’s journey.
The meaning of the title Monomyth directly translates to the hero’s journey. Painting pictures in the minds of the listener through hypnotic melodies and rippling patterns of bass, Saka embarks on a transformative quest that embodies the spirit of the hero.
“This EP is a musical journey crafted in the timeless pattern of a hero’s quest—the “Monomyth”. In “Soul Ties, “we witness the tragic demise of our hero, consumed by darkness, he transforms into a version of his former self—a “Ghoul,” Saka explained. “Yet, through the haunting melodies of “Ifrit” and “Shenlong,” he begins his ascent from the darkness, ultimately conquering these two demons. “Ichiban” heralds a moment of pride before the inevitable descent depicted in “Phantasm.” Here, our hero awakens to the harsh truth: it was all but a fleeting dream. As the music fades, the hero grasps the fleeting nature of his adventure—a profound revelation within the melody and myth of the EP.”
Monomyth is a captivating cinematic experience.
Coming across as more of a movie than an album, Monomyth is a captivating cinematic experience that’ll have you sitting at the edge of your seat.
Saka first pulls you in with the gripping breakbeat sounds of Soul Ties, which submerge you in somber nostalgia as you’re introduced to the protagonist. Then, the Of The Trees collaboration, Ghoul transports you into a dark yet mystical realm filled with lasering frequencies and unexplained sounds as the hero’s struggles intensify.
The energy is then taken up a notch as Ifrit immerses you into a deep darkness through an array of potent bass drops and sinister soundscapes as the hero is not only mocked but tormented. But, of course, in order to find the light, one must conquer the darkness.
Fueled by the gritty basslines of Shenlong, the hero quickly finds strength and courage from within, which he uses to defeat his adversaries. Then, in a celebratory fashion, the hero proclaims his victory through the wonky beats and strutting drops of Ichiban before the lucid melodies and heavy-hitting tones of Phantasm wake him up from the fleeting memories of the illusion.
Monomyth is a testament to Saka’s innovative mind.
From the vivid storyline to the complex sounds that defined it, Saka’s Monomyth EP is a true masterpiece. Showcasing an unmatched artistry rooted in sheer innovation and creativity, he not only establishes himself as one of the most prolific producers in electronic music but creates a record that’s profound, thought-provoking, and timeless.
You can stream Monomyth by Saka HERE!
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