Theef’s “Sun & Smoke” Transcends Boundaries with A Strangely Isolated Place Release
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Greek electronic artist Theef initially shared Sun & Smoke as a two-hour mix on platforms like YouTube and SoundCloud in 2018, never expecting it to reach a broader audience. This self-produced set, consisting entirely of unreleased tracks, was conceived as a personal project, a safe haven of sound with no intention of commercial release. However, the mix caught the attention of the renowned label A Strangely Isolated Place (ASIP), known for curating ambient and electronic music gems. After extensive discussions and late-night listening sessions, ASIP worked with Theef to bring this project to life as a full-fledged album, carefully selecting 19 tracks that captured the essence of the original mix.
Sun & Smoke is a sonic journey that navigates through the realms of deep techno, trance, and downtempo. Its appeal lies in the authenticity and purity of its creation—music built without the constraints of a targeted audience, allowing it to explore progressive atmospheres, captivating grooves, and moments of sheer euphoria. As an album, each track from Sun & Smoke has been given the space to breathe and stand on its own, transforming the original mixtape into a collection of distinct yet interconnected sonic experiences.
The album opens with ambient textures in tracks like “Sky Textures” and the titular “Sun & Smoke,” setting a serene yet expansive tone. As the journey progresses, listeners are introduced to the electro influences in “Primal Age” and the intricate, metallic synth patterns in “Approaching Stars.” These tracks, along with others on the album, highlight Theef’s ability to craft immersive soundscapes that resonate with the deep, introspective vibes found in the works of artists like Neel and Donato Dozzy, both known for their contributions to the ambient techno scene.
Mastered by the talented Giuseppe Tillieci, also known as Neel, whose work with Voices From The Lake has been highly regarded in the electronic music community, Sun & Smoke achieves an exceptional level of sonic clarity and depth. The album’s visual presentation, with artwork by Juan Fernandez and editing by ASIP, complements the ethereal quality of the music. Released on Transparent Red/Orange Smoke gatefold 2LP and digital formats, Sun & Smoke is not just an album—it’s an invitation to lose yourself in the mesmerizing soundscapes that Theef has meticulously crafted, making it a standout release in the ambient and techno genres.
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