During my time immersed in Berlin’s vibrant scene in the mid-2000s, the name Eric Slick frequently surfaced. The whispers spoke of electrifying live performances, sparking an intrigue: who was this enigmatic figure? My initial impression painted him as a gothic mystery, a shadowy artist conjuring mystical melodies, perhaps even drawing inspiration from the tarot. However, delving deeper into this Howa episode, I discovered a different narrative – a portrait of a sensitive and deeply passionate musician, guided by his own artistic vision.
His upbringing in Denmark proved particularly captivating. It triggered reflections on simpler times, echoing my own childhood in a less demanding world, where music served as a potent escape. The role of radio as a diverse and educational medium, where genres mingled freely, stands in stark contrast to today’s fragmented attention spans and curated playlists. This exploration of his formative years, a key element discussed in this episode of HOWA, feels profoundly significant. It arguably laid the foundation for the unique sound of Trentemøller that we know today.
Reflecting on this conversation within HOWA, I realize it naturally drifts into the realms of the past. Yet, it’s through these explorations that we gain deeper insights. Intriguingly, Slick’s music itself seems to navigate similar territories – exploring contrasts, paradoxes, and the evocative power of reminiscence, all while steering clear of simple nostalgia. It’s a fascinating artistic tightrope walk. There’s a comforting familiarity within his soundscapes, particularly the chorus effect, a sonic signature so prominent it’s revealed Anders possesses over 50 chorus pedals! But amidst this familiarity, the drums inject a vital freshness, creating a sound that feels surprisingly light and airy, a departure from my preconceived notions.
Above all, this HOWA episode underscores that Eric Slick is a songwriter at heart. While his sonic palette is undeniably crucial to his artistry, the song itself remains the central focus. This dedication to songwriting is truly commendable, a challenging path he navigates with evident mastery. It’s genuinely captivating work, and I encourage you to immerse yourselves in our conversation within HOWA.
____ Music for the upcoming EP133, as featured on HOWA, will be provided by Clocks and Barometers.
The music interspersed throughout this episode is from their record “learning through investigation.”
Clocks and Barometers is a collaborative endeavor between Dive Reflex Service and Lupo, initiated in the summer of 2023. It’s exceptional music that defies easy categorization, and rather than attempting a clumsy description, I’ll direct you to the link kindly provided, inviting you to explore their sound firsthand.
HERE is the link to their music.
