Released on September 9, 2016, "The 13th Floor" stands as a monumental statement from D-Styles, the undeniable musical architect behind Invisibl Skratch Piklz's long-awaited debut album. After two decades of redefining the art of turntablism, this release marked a profound reintroduction of the "DJ band" concept they pioneered, elevating the turntable from a mere tool to a virtuosic instrument capable of deep, emotive composition....
Released on September 9, 2016, "The 13th Floor" stands as a monumental statement from D-Styles, the undeniable musical architect behind Invisibl Skratch Piklz's long-awaited debut album. After two decades of redefining the art of turntablism, this release marked a profound reintroduction of the "DJ band" concept they pioneered, elevating the turntable from a mere tool to a virtuosic instrument capable of deep, emotive composition.
D-Styles, a towering figure in electronic music and a pivotal member of the legendary Invisibl Skratch Piklz and Beat Junkies, has consistently pushed the boundaries of sound. His solo debut, *Phantazmagorea*, was lauded for its dark, twisted narratives crafted entirely from manipulated samples, foretelling the experimental beat explosion of the LA scene. With "The 13th Floor," D-Styles channels this visionary approach into the collaborative framework of ISP, driving compositions that traverse a spectrum from "paranoid downtempo grooves to psychedelic jazz," as noted by FACT magazine.
Recorded over five intense days in Tokyo, the album’s title itself speaks volumes—a metaphorical ascent to a space where others fear to tread, a "soundtrack when you're actually on the 13th floor." This isn't a collection of battle routines; it’s a meticulously crafted body of work where each member – D-Styles, Q-Bert, and Shortkut – contributes to a stripped-back, uncluttered sound. The focus is purely on the musicality of the turntable, delivering compositions built on foundational elements: drums, bass, and leads, all fashioned live.
In an era dominated by digital convenience, "The 13th Floor" defiantly champions the "live element, no safety net." It's a raw, authentic performance that brings tangible emotion back to electronic music, a stark contrast to the "safe set" often seen with laptops. This album is a testament to the enduring potential of the turntable as a unique, tactile instrument, proving that after 20 years, Invisibl Skratch Piklz, under D-Styles’ musical guidance, continues to innovate and inspire, captivating new audiences with their unparalleled artistry.
