Photay’s latest single, "Air Lock," is an immersive dive into the world of intricate IDM and glitch, bringing a fresh wave of electronica to the table. As part of his upcoming album Windswept (due September 20th via Mexican Summer), the track continues Photay’s exploration of natural forces, in this case, using wind as both inspiration and theme. The result is a shapeshifting auditory experience that mimics the flow and unpredictability of nature.
"Air Lock" balances calm and chaos, capturing the sensation of moving between two environments—an air-locked space amid turbulent surroundings. The track’s flowing soundscape is a testament to Photay's production skills, blending organic and electronic elements in a way that feels both experimental and approachable. His use of rhythm is subtle but builds an underlying tension, with shifting layers of glitchy beats that evoke a sense of disconnection before being re-anchored in smooth, atmospheric waves.
This sound is accompanied by a visually striking music video directed by Josh Shaffner. The animation leans into Photay’s central theme of wind, presenting abstract and dreamlike interpretations of movement and space. Shaffner’s hand-drawn style complements the track’s organic vibe, creating a seamless multimedia experience.
Windswept's larger concept—representing the power and unpredictability of wind—shines through in this track. Each note feels like it was sculpted to channel the forces of nature, giving Air Lock an almost meditative quality despite its electronic foundation.
About the Artist
Photay, born Evan Shornstein, hails from the Hudson Valley and now resides in Los Angeles, crafting his unique sound that sits somewhere between IDM, glitch, indie-electronic, and even jazz-influenced soundscapes. His musical evolution has included everything from solo electronic productions to collaborative folk-jazz projects with global influences. A self-described “pastoralist” at heart, Photay draws heavily from the elements, infusing his music with a sense of place and environment.
For fans of Laraaji, Carlos Niño, and artists in the intersection of ambient, experimental, and electronica, Air Lock offers a nuanced and layered listening experience. It’s both contemplative and danceable, with each listen revealing more detail in its rich sonic texture. Keep an ear out for Windswept, an album likely to cement Photay’s reputation as one of the most versatile producers in the experimental-electronic scene.
