Fluke - Lost

​Fluke

Lost
​self-released; 2023

​By Jamie Funk

In 2023, Fluke unveiled "Lost," an album that beckons listeners into a realm where the avant-garde meets electronic allure. The tracklist itself, adorned with enigmatic titles such as "8bit Frungeon" and "Courtroom Therapissed," immediately hinted at an unconventional sonic experience, reminiscent of the experimental ethos found in the works of Aphex Twin, albeit with a distinctive twist toward mixing it with organic instrumentation.

"8bit Frungeon" emerges as a pinnacle of electronic craftsmanship, weaving intricate layers of instrumentation that traverse sub-bass vibrations, dynamic percussion, and a myriad of other sonic elements. It stands tall as one of the album's defining gems, a testament to Fluke's prowess in navigating the electronic terrain. 

The collaboration with Candelabra on "Fluud" introduces a delightful fusion of piano and fuzzy lo-fi guitar, while "Ocd" embraces delicate guitar picking and vocals to an unexpected plunge into a realm of intense percussion, creating dynamic juxtaposition.

"Coffee Flatbill" stands out as a triumph where aesthetic elements seamlessly coalesce, showcasing Fluke's ability to forge sonic cohesion. However, as the album unfolds, it becomes evident that the electronic components emerge as the true strength, while the organic instruments occasionally adopt a lo-fi character, struggling at times to harmonize within the same musical EQ curve. 

Highlight tracks like "Courtroom Therapissed" and "Morality Gone" punctuate the dichotomy within Fluke's musical persona. The latter, in particular, demonstrates a versatility that could effortlessly translate into a stripped-down acoustic rendition, underscoring the artist's multifaceted talent. 

In my assessment, Fluke beckons a profound exploration into the realm of sound design, akin to the groundbreaking approaches employed by luminaries such as Amon Tobin and Jon Hopkins. The potential for Fluke to chart an innovative trajectory in electronic music is palpable, and I eagerly anticipate the sounds that will unfold in the artist's future endeavors.

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