SN Variations are proud to present Sub, the debut album by composer-conductor Jack Sheen.

Composed for a lop-sided ensemble of five alto flutes, two bass clarinets, two trombones, piano, percussion, four violas, and a backing track of white noise and field recordings, this radical orchestral reimagining shuns traditional ensemble formats in favour of mid-range saturation. The results are like no other: rich, uncanny, and somewhat absurd.

Whilst nodding its head to minimalism and ambient music on a formal level, Sub engages with energy. The cyclic reoccurrence at the heart of each movement create sculptural impressions, yet the music buzzes with motors running independent of one another at irregular paces.

This album is Sheen’s first collaboration with Octandre Ensemble and conductor Jon Hargreaves, and was recorded over two days in July 2021 by Simon Reynell in Menuhin Hall. It was mixed by Reynell and Sheen, and mastered by Stephan Matthieu. Artwork and design are by Sheen and Will Boyd of sferic. Liner notes are by Ed Atkins.