STM 078 - Quinoline Yellow

The author of the mix is Luke Williams, known under the aliases Quinoline Yellow, Tatamax, and Mantle of Gets—a British electronic music performer and sound artist based in London, United Kingdom. Musically active since the early 1990s, Williams immersed himself in the repertoires of pirate radio stations and early hardcore and drum and bass culture. He spent countless hours exploring records in the now-defunct record shop Ambient Soho, a crucial learning ground in his career. The year 2000 marked a turning point for Williams as he signed with the legendary alternative electronic label Skam Records, a home to influential acts like Boards of Canada, Bola, Gescom, and Team Doyobi. He made his Skam debut at a Futuresonic event in Manchester, followed by a high-profile performance at Warp Records’ Lighthouse Party.

Over the past decade, Williams has released a range of works on labels like Skam, Andrea Parker’s recently re-launched Touchin' Bass, and his own imprint, Uchelfa. He has performed extensively in the UK—including a notable set at ATP Festival curated by Autechre—as well as across Europe and Japan, sharing the stage with respected artists like Mira Calix, Clark, μ-Ziq, Rob Hall, Jega, and Pan Sonic. Interestingly, the name Quinoline Yellow is derived from a pair of chemical compounds, one being Quinoline Yellow SS.

“Secret Thirteen Mix 078” is a versatile and dynamic audio journey through 55 timeless records from the last three decades. Featuring tracks by iconic artists like Autechre, Aphex Twin, Scanner, Squarepusher, Fennesz, BOC, and Mr. 76ix, the mix brings a unique fusion of hardware-generated sound, mellow diversity, and unparalleled originality. It even includes a few hidden works by Tatamax. The foundation of this mix lies in its constantly rotating rhythms, powerful melodic arrangements, varied tempo, and intentional flow. Mixing is precise, patient, and meticulously calibrated, resulting in a sustained, kaleidoscopic collage. Despite the focus on eclectic record choices, Williams seamlessly blends the tracks, with many sounding refreshingly new. He isn’t afraid to combine jungle with IDM, ambient with hip-hop, or breaks with glitch, showcasing his open-minded approach to music and deep-rooted knowledge. In many ways, this mix evokes the essence of Skam Records’ classic sound. It’s a thoughtfully compiled and produced selection that echoes Williams’ early influences, sparking positive nostalgia for any discerning listener.

“Secret Thirteen Mix 078” is like a vibrant Salvador Dalí painting, “Singularities,” where eccentric perspectives and divergent influences create imaginative, surreal dreamscapes. Quinoline Yellow’s mix mirrors Dalí’s vivid work with its organic tension, striking color palette, and layered narratives. This mix feels like a 'blast from the past,' offering valuable insights for younger listeners unfamiliar with the 2000s alternative electronic scene and a touch of nostalgia for die-hard fans of the golden IDM era.