Signs Under Test cover

Signs Under Test

John Tejada · 2015

58 min · 11 tracks · electronic music

A seamless blend of deep house grooves and intricate melodic patterns that evoke a sense of introspective exploration.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Two 0 One Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
  • →
    R.U.R. — This track stands out for its hypnotic rhythms and evolving textures, exemplifying Tejada's ability to create immersive soundscapes that captivate listeners.
  • →
    Endorphins — The track showcases a balance between upbeat melodies and deeper basslines, reflecting Tejada's skill in merging contrasting elements into a cohesive whole.
  • →
    Meadow — With its serene atmosphere and subtle layers, this track encapsulates the reflective nature of the album, offering a moment of calm amid the rhythmic pulsations.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental
63 /100
Treeline
Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate production and maintains a cohesive flow, making it a solid entry in deep house.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent tempo throughout, with tracks maintaining a deep house groove that rarely deviates.
  • Melodic patterns are layered intricately, often introducing new elements gradually over the course of each track.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 3/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady mid-tempo progression
  • hypnotic rhythms for introspection
  • immersive soundscapes for focus
  • thoughtful background for creativity

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer standalone tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Critical Peak — Innovative production techniques mark a significant artistic moment in Tejada's career.
Themes
hypnotic soundscapes· introspective exploration· serene atmospheres
Career context
By 2015, John Tejada was well-established in the electronic music scene, releasing 'Signs Under Test' as his first album after a four-year hiatus. This record followed his 2011 release, 'The Predictive Echo', showcasing his continued evolution in sound and reaffirming his status as a pioneer in minimal techno.
Stylistic neighbors
Sasha· James Holden· Kiasmos

Tracklist

  • 1 Two 0 One Start here 5:43
  • 2 Y 0 Why 4:34
  • 3 Beacht 5:11
  • 4 R.U.R. 5:33
  • 5 Vaalbara 5:30
  • 6 Cryptochrome 5:41
  • 7 Rubric 5:13
  • 8 Penumbra 5:22
  • 9 Endorphins 5:22
  • 10 Meadow 5:10
  • 11 Heave in Sight 4:44

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata