Sinthesize

Released in early 2020, Sinthesize represents a minimalist pivot for Terrace Martin, an artist typically known for his dense, multi-layered West Coast productions and high-profile collaborations with Kendrick Lamar and Herbie Hancock. This album is a solo exploration of synthesis and mood, utilizing a palette of vintage analog gear to create a series of 'sketches.' The track titles, such as 'Slauson Walker' and 'The Blue Line,' ground the ethereal music in the geography of Los Angeles, suggesting a travelogue through the city's transit and culture. Clocking in at just over 15 minutes, the record functions similarly to a lo-fi beat tape but with the harmonic sophistication of a seasoned jazz musician. It was received by critics as a refreshing, intimate look into Martin's personal process, showcasing his ability to evoke deep nostalgia and urban solitude through electronic textures alone. It stands as a quiet bridge between his hip-hop production work and his more traditional jazz outings.