| The Q4 is a Dutch production trio consisting of sampling specialists Sense, Arts the Beatdoctor and STW. Although their collage of sounds covers parts of many genres, it is generally perceived as hip hop or trip hop. Numerous obscure records are worked into every song with the greatest of care, often accompanied by live instrumentation or scratches giving their music an organic feel. The Q4's name refers to the quadraphonic sound systems popular in the 70s as one of the earlier forms of surround sound... hence the title 'Sound Surroundings' for their critically acclaimed debut that was released at the start of the year. Aside from instrumental songs the album also features a number of guest vocalists, ranging from rappers to flamenco and blues singers. The 'Darker Days' EP however is fully instrumental and features four original new tracks and two remixes. It comes accompanied by a promotional cassette (yes, a cassette - ask your dad) on which another new Q4 song can be found, as well as an introduction to Shahmen, one of Sense's solo projects. |
