Dub FX has made his way from the busking streets of Melbourne to become one of the world’s most recognised street and stage performers. More commonly known as Ben Stanford, his fusion of beat boxing, dub, reggae, electronics and hip hop has earned him one hell of a reputation.
Dub FX’s experimental sound speaks for itself in his third studio album, Thinking Clear, recorded in his very own Treetop Studios. The Theory Of Harmony (2014) follow up sees the innovative talent blending urban and environmental sceneries, creating a holistic experience that inspires through transcendent electronic and acoustic elements.
Beginning the listening experience is Birds And The Bees, sprinkled with the sounds of birds chirping and trees swaying in the wind. Whispering the words, “It’s a good night for the birds and the bees/ Do you see the sunlight coming through the trees?” Dub FX immediately creates intrigue. As a fast tempo transfixes, its transformative nature takes over and you are officially reintroduced to the wonder that is Dub FX.
The eight minute Heat Wave sees the experimental artist placing no time limits on his productions, allowing his live sound to thrive and a sense of improvisation to occur. Sampled sounds of the ocean and an extended horn section create a stark contrast between ethereal and fiery tones, two common threads throughout the release. UnWind details the journey he has taken over the years and pays homage to his busker beginning with,“Coins in my hat is how I paid my way from city to city and street to stage.”
That’s The Game, Dub FX showcases his sheer range with an A Capella performance. A soulful, doo-wop inspired vocal is matched with a part hip hop, part reggae instrumental and simply couldn’t offer up a more enjoyable end.
BY PHOEBE ROBERTSON
