Ensemble Skalectrik is a side-project of Nick "Ekoplekz" Edwards. Previous emissions include the self-released psycho-geographical abstraction of Snuff Mill Tapes and a homage to Maurizio Bianchi via Feral Tapes. Focusing entirely on spontaneous composition and one-take improvisation, Ensemble Skalectrik represents the most raw, extreme performance-based electronic music in Edwards' repertoire. On Trainwrekz, Edwards has dusted-off his turntables, grabbed a stack of old vinyl (mainly sound effects and easy listening albums), added a selection of sound-shaping devices (filters, equalizers, loop-pedals) and proceeded to record a series of delirious, derailed sonic sketches that sound like nothing else in his rapidly expanding discography. Ranging from the portentous pile-up of "Wrekwahn," the oppressive atmospherics of "Wrekfore" and the serene ornithological drift of "Wreksikz," these half-dozen pieces document the emergence of a highly personalized form of turntablism that incorporates elements of chance, drone, dub, hauntology, musique concrete and free improvisation. Performed and recorded in three sessions during the month of November, 2012. Additional production and mix January 2013. Active participants: Alesis Nano Compressor, BASF Chrome cassette (x2), Belcat Delay, Chance, Danelectro "Reel Echo," Ekdahl "Moisturizer," Electrix "EQ Killer," Electro-Harmonix "The Worm," Muza FD900 "M Ambience," Nick Edwards, Rocktek 6 Band EQ, Stanton STR8-30 direct drive turntable (x2), Yamaha MT3X cassette multi-track and a selection of vinyl LP records.
