On
Conversions in Metric, instrumental composer Scott August, also known as
French Paddleboat, lays the framework for a new breed of electronic-based pop. The Canadian teenager had already been creating his own style of disorienting instrumentals for years before Vancouver's Scratch Records offered to release this nine-song disc of shimmering loops and blistering beats. The beat-driven synthesizer sound of the opening track, "The Market's Price," creates a colorful and ambient tone at the beginning of the disc. The addition of a xylophone results in a surprisingly catchy current of radiant sounds. August's instrumental compositions are borderline electronica with an indie rock/pop sensibility. The subtle rhythm of "Signal That Opens Gates" and "My Robots Love to Dance" is combined with a steady dose of surprising electronic pop arrangements. "Goods Sett & Type" includes a steady dose of catchy samples and a sublime keyboard backdrop. Chimes, bells, and even clarinet make appearances on the album's wildly eclectic songs. The music is instantly recognizable for its
Oval and
Land of the Loops influences. Despite obvious similarities, August is able to withstand the music industry's appetite for musical categorization. The mellow and melodic sounds on
Conversions in Metric serve as a promise for better things to come. The album was recorded in late 1997 and released in early 1999. ~ Stephen Cramer