Burial essentially birthed a whole generation of producers pursuing a [found sound + 2-step drums + ambient pads + maybe some vocal samples] formula. And I don’t say formula as a bad thing; I’m not against formulaic music, as long as it’s evocative and not boring. Honestly, I’m not sure how anyone who loves dance music can really be totally against formulas; after all, what would most dance floors be without the tropes that pervade so intensely in house and techno (or really, most club genres)? Call this post-dubstep, future garage, or whatever the fuck else, but if it makes you feel something, it’s good, right?

Patros15 and Apolo//Apolo appear to be two such producers. Patros15 is from Slovakia, Apolo//Apolo appears to be from Burlington, VT. The first song featured below, “Purpose”, is the one they sent me. A collaboration full of detailed shuffled drum programming and thoughtful sound design, it should stand up strong for any fan of the genre. Out now for streaming as a single, or for purchase as part of the excellent Shared Quarters Vol.4 on Special Species, a bandcamp-only compilation that features four songs each from four different artists (shared quarters, right?). The second, “Drowning”, is also by Apolo/Apolo — from the same compilation — and loosely follows the same formula, but leans harder into house music territory, also really strong.

And the third is a solo from Patros15. This time abandoning the shuffle, and the drums altogether for that matter–as has the godfather himself–in favor of more complete focus on streetscape ambience. Out now for streaming, or on bandcamp as part of the Street Echos compilation on Dark Heart.

Patros15 & Apolo//Apolo – “Purpose” (bc)

Apolo//Apolo – “Drowning” (bc)

Patros15 – “Forgive” (bc)