Welcome to the first edition of Extended Play, an off shoot of the Future Focus series where we delve into EPs and LPs, rather than individual singles. To kick off this series we have UK wave label, SYNES and their second compilation LP, PATCH 2.

Wave has been in our sights for some time, with Futuremag Music featuring genre tend setters Skeler, Kareful, Deadcrow and cuts from leading labels like Liquid Ritual, Vibe Digital and SYNES. The underground genre has triumphed over negative notions of rival genres as it continues to consume market share and bolster itself into the mainstream. Mura Masa, RL Grime, Diplo, and Porter Robinson have all included wave into their sets, broadcasting the genre to millions. Although there’s been tremendous success, tragedy rocked the community, with the passing of Øfdream and Reflektion in a space of months. These significant losses were felt among the tight nit electronic sect. The pair’s legacy continues as their recognisable sonics inspire the next generation of wave acts.

SYNES’ PATCH 2 , perfectly captures this next generation, featuring a fluid selection of developing acts who are making movements in the underground scene. Headed by heavy hitter, Pholo, the compilation also features the likes of Sombra, Eone, Yedgar, Druid, R@, Vexxy, B:Thorough, Jok, HEATDEATH1992, Montblanko, Eyesz, Tw1gz, and Ravver.

Opening PATCH 2 is Pholo with ‘Butterfly Noose’, a quintessential wave ensemble. The balance of ethereal elements blend with the swift synths and lush progression. Pholo’s distinguishable form lays the ground work for the LP’s following releases. The remaining singles in the compilation expertly explore wave’s dynamic sonic semblance. The likes of Sombra, Druid, R@, Jok, and Montblanko expand the genre’s bounds, while Eone, Yedgar, Vexxy, B:Thorough, HEATDEATH1992, Eyesz, Tw1gz, and Ravver cement the core soundscape. Each artist leaves their distinctive mark over the diverse structure of 14 tracks.

Though showcasing the next generation of wave artists, SYNES’ PATCH 2 is an exciting journey and insight to genre’s future.

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