Born and raised in the ancient city of Artashat, near Turkish and Iranian borders, Armenian, Sarkis Egiazarjan, has honed the skill set of his Kissoff alter ego to impressive effect, leading now to release of the "Dreamscapes" EP on Particles. Guided and mentored by Ivan 'D-Phrag' Filipov, Sarkis soaked up the advice, teaching and introductions to the underground music scene to emerge from a strong brotherly bond, forming a creative force in his own right.

Involved in musical appreciation for the dance scene from an early age, and after moving to Russia in the mid 90s, it was not long before Kissoff's cultured approach to his craft led to DJ opportunities in "little know Yaroslavl clubs". Then, through word-of-mouth and no considerable skill, performances at bigger clubs in larger Russian cities followed towards the end of the last decade built upon Kissoff's penchant for "long, beautiful and harmonious sets."

With drive and ambition in bountiful supply, Sarkis' desire to demonstrate an "individuality" in his work has led to almost a half century of production credits to his name for such labels Balkan Connection, Stellar Fountain and OLD SQL. Passionate about his craft and proficient in a variety of genres, mood is an integral component in the Kissoff production sound as techno, deep and progressive house are closely tied to emotions ranging across the spectrum from sadness to happiness. Now transposing these differing moods into aural form, Particles is proud to announce a debut release for Sarkis and his Kissoff moniker through the quartet of tracks that mark the "Dreamscapes" EP.

Opening with the soft, flowing and melodic soundscapes of "My Homeland", Kissoff's heritage is immediately evident as subtle freeform motifs drift through woodwind duduk inspired instrumentations. Rippling percussion trips along in the background alongside a deep kick that anchors a work of auditory collage to create a special sonic moment.

"Big Cities" opens with richly textured pad that warms the soul before a strong techno kick provides the foundation for dub inspired vocal cuts to play out in delayed glory. Intermittent shakers and wood block soaked in reverb combine to create structured percussion in an evocative work.

A delightful and haunting repetitive melodic motif provides the central theme within "Lost Cities". Falling and rising with infinite ease, it evolves gently over the eight-and-a-half minute journey as it effortlessly changes form against ticking kick drum backdrop and reluctant techno beats.

Final track sees a more traditional techno form emerge through "Insomnia". Deep house chords sees no lack of faith in the genre as rapid-fire hats and strong beat give credence to the track's techno origins. Freeform piano phrases complete the picture and create a cleverly worked piece.

As dreams rapidly become reality for Kissoff, "Dreamscapes" look set to herald a new dawn.

Directed by Jay Epoch 
A&R by Marina Gerardi 
Mastered by Kissoff 
Design by Ben Mautner
Text by James Warren 

Kissoff - Lost Dreams (Radio Edit)

Particles