Transmitting crucial beats from Burlington, the Vermont-based producers Es-K and Loupo have crafted a smooth, introspective long-player for the Cold Busted label titled Symbiosis. Holland-born Es-K (Essential Knowledge) is known for his monthly Spontaneous Grooves series (where a collection of tracks are created in one sitting) and his vital 2016 album Passages. Fellow VT rhythmwrangler Loupo is also on the rise, with a recent album on the Melody Soul label named Good Company. This new collaborative release, Symbiosis, is a brilliant meeting-of-the-minds, blending the styles of these two talents over the course of ten tracks. The result is deep and meaningful as well as groovy and ‘headz approved,’ showcasing the duo’s penchant for envelope pushing in terms of atmosphere, melody, and rhythm.

From the opening chords of “Aqua” – reminiscent of expansive works from the likes of Lonnie Linston Smith – Symbiosis sets itself apart in the realm of beat-conscious production projects. Sparkling Rhodes piano, a winding jazz bass line, and an overall pensive vibe lead midway into a funky drum part, which almost seems curiously added as an afterthought. The fusion-istic instrumentation and understated, downbeat rhythm flavor continue throughout Symbiosis, shining on cool cuts like “Road To”, the tough, slow motion stepper “Gavel”, “TwoTone” with its jerky beats and film noir attitude, and “CooLit”s cosmic quiet storm meditation. Es-K and Loupo are onto something unique and special, and Symbiosis lays out their fruit of their sonic exploration for all to enjoy.