Arc Vel is the work of Paul Wood who has refined his own brand of electronica through his many live performances and the wonderful culmination of this focused and careful work is collected here on his debut for First Fold Records in the form of 'Orrery'.
Some reviews of 'Orrery' have criticised its warmth and accessibility but this, surely, is a credit to Wood and his brightly constructed electronica. Accessibility should not be a negative attribute of experimental music and should be applauded. Get the punters in and get them listening. And although Arc Vel is not way-out-there 'Orrery' does feature some nice form-plays and very danceable glitchy beats and pieces.
There are hints of sul.a, Markus Popp's So and Oval projects and also 'Envane' era Autechre here but 'Orrery' holds its own against this heritage as a unique, enjoyable and highly refined set of immersive tracks.
As much a celebration of electronica and electronic music's history as it is a very personal statement, Wood has assembled an incredibly warm album with genuine heart.
Available now through First Fold Records.
Matt
