R.S.A.G.: Rotate

Kilkenny’s Jeremy Hickey, aka RSAG, has for the past few years been one of the most talented mavericks on the Irish independent scene, winning considerable critical praise and building up a devoted cult following. His latest offering, the six-track mini-album Rotate, showcases his abilities superbly, with the producer taking an array of eclectic influences and creating a record that remains unique and distinctive.
‘Open’ is propelled forward by a motorik groove and has a wonderfully dreamy texture, whilst ‘You Want More’ is an excellent slice of atmospheric electronica with echoes of Tortoise and Aphex Twin. It finds Hickey, in his trademark whispered vocals, repeating the line, “Can’t stop thinking my head’s on fire”. Perhaps the finest track is ‘Falter’, a terrific piece of skewed art-rock that erupts into a killer groove halfway through, and also boasts some spooky vocals in the background.
Elsewhere, ‘Broken State’ features quirky post-rock rhythms with echoes of Battles, ‘This Winding Sheet’ merges Krautrock with oddball electro sounds to winning effect, and the closing ‘Rotate’ is beautifully ethereal. He may be known as Rarely Seen Above Ground, but whenever Hickey does actually surface, his appearance is always worthwhile.