The extent to which the uploaded standalone singles by SoundCloud regular Patrick Ellis count as instrumental hip-hop might be gauged according to their content. Much of his work has a delectable downtempo quality. Some is downright ambient thanks to an emphasis on tonal material and surface noise. Others, like the recently posted “How Love / Blue Sky Sprites,” venture more solidly into hip-hop swagger. The track has Ellis’ trademark interest in minimal impact, select source audio, and a hazy, afternoon vibe. Here it is produced with such elements as two soulful vocal samples (one a sped-up melisma), sentimental chimes, and a rhythm just far enough off the beat to arguably register as funky. And at just 1:12, “How Love / Blue Sky Sprites” is suitable for setting on repeat.
Track originally posted for free download at soundcloud.com/patrick.