Spatialize

Spatialize is the project of Neil Butler from the United Kingdom. The music sits in ambient, chillout, downtempo, electronic, electronica and psybient territory, with a sound described as atmospheric, groove-led and organic. Butler begins experimenting with music technology in his early teens, and the project develops from that long interest in electronic production.

Background and influences

Spatialize draws on influences including Ozric Tentacles, The Orb and Banco de Gaia, with later inspiration from Shpongle and OTT. Butler’s frequent travel also shapes the music, which is described as floating and ambient but also strong and sonic. Over time, the project’s sound becomes more distinctive and is associated with a “sweet, organic” character.

Career

Spatialize’s first public appearance is on a Future Music magazine CD. In 2000, the project wins the Sound-Sound Top Tape competition. Butler then focuses on improving the sound and production, which leads to Dryad’s Bubble in 2004. That release becomes popular in chill-out rooms across the UK.

By 2006, In the Midst of Myriads shows a more rhythmic direction. The release is shaped by live performances over the previous couple of years, including support slots for trance acts such as Eat Static, System 7, Zion Train and Astralasia in venues in the South West of the UK. Although planned as an album, it is issued as a 34-minute EP or mini-album after six tracks are written in a short period following a return from Thailand. The release appears on the new label Spiral Sounds.