For his 10th album, Austrian-born, California-based DJ/producer John Tejada focuses on his collection of vintage synths, drum machines and tape echo machines in search of warmth and unpredictability. Rather than revisit the electronic music sounds of the 70s and 80s, he’s applied the equipment to the melodic tech house with which he’s long been associated. While that musical direction won’t surprise fans, the overall feel of Signs Under Test is distinctly different from what’s currently filling the dance charts.
The mood is mostly mellow and dreamy, but still closer to dance music than ambient. Tejada goes for unique tones and avoids trends, though many moments are reminiscent of big-room progressive tunes of the early 00s, which sound dated at times. Nevertheless, there are also plenty of undeniably pretty melodies, thick tones and pleasingly warm textures, not to mention impressive flashes of innovation and creativity.
Top track: Meadow
