Ryan Chan known as 757 released his 4-track EP, “While My 303 Gently Weeps” that features a somber take on his distinct acid techno funk. From fast-paced acid synths coupled with hazy kicks to introspective melodic cuts, his latest marks a thunderous return for the Vancouver-based talent.
Kicking off the EP, “You, You” delivers an unabashedly hard-hitting slice of fast-paced acid that gracefully echoes his signature sound design. “Does Anybody Remember Laughter” boasts euphoria and the promise of a better tomorrow, with a cacophony of glistening synths that are pushed forward by a muted 303 loop. The titular single, “While My 303 Gently Weeps” features throbbing kicks, and a triumphant attempt to inject the beloved guitar solo into techno. The final track, “You Missed The Starting Gun,” provides the perfect ending as it is a nearly seven-minute whirlwind of wavering dub blasts, angelic crescendos, and alluring synths, the EP’s coda will take listeners on a reminiscent journey of peak-time anthems.
With touring on hold and a newfound crop of free time, Chan told us that he spent the beginning of lockdown indulging in one of his favorite genres: classic rock. This binge inspired him to experiment with the intersection of rock and techno. “Those few months started to make me think that it’s quite sad the direction music is going – less soul, less musical aptitude, less of a human aspect, less control,” Chan comments, “now it’s all about step sequencer modules that generate random patterns that do the songwriting for you, plugins where you can play in key without knowing music theory, or even music generated by AI.” He set out to produce a series of techno tracks that capture the same essence conveyed by a classic guitar solo, but with his trademark piece of gear – the 303. “My hope is that if you ever hear this on a dance floor in the future, you and everyone around will be in sync and be feeling the same type of way about the track.”
Enjoy the EP below.