Shork drops debut album ‘The Universe’

Dublin-based multi-instrumentalist and producer Mark Sheridan, known under his solo project moniker Shork, has made a compelling entrance into the music scene with his debut album titled The Universe. With a knack for crafting ambient and dreamlike soundscapes, Shork’s music explores melodic electronica unerpinned by tight rhythms and grooving basslines.

Drawing from a diverse range of musical influences, this exciting newcomer is on a mission to experiment, innovate and create original music that energises and entertains. The Universe is an eight-track release that serves up the perfect run through of Shork’s distinctive sonic vision. The entire album, from composition to production, was crafted in his bedroom studio, revealing his creative independence and resourceful talent.

Opened by “Tether,” the LP starts off with a deep atmosphere of softly vibrating synth textures, joined by hushed vocal samples before the abrupt punch of a drum beat switches up the vibe. Stuttering rhythms underpin lush vocal sample leads and an array of synth tones across the full frequency spectrum from warm bass tones to granular top lines. Packed full of twists, turns and modulating electronic instrumentation, it’s an immersive and energising curtain raiser that sets up an enthralling journey through the artist’s world.

“Denim” starts off with vocal samples discussing the history of humans, going back through time and evolution to the start of the life and the universe itself, before a laid back electronic groove takes shape with a mellow snapping beat, sliding synth lines and playful flourishes, building up the beat to form an upbeat and danceable track.

“The Blind” sees Shork link with David Bridgeman for a dreamy electronic pop cut full of smooth energy and alluring vocal leads injecting an alternative R&B vibe. Mellow and catchy, the song sees layers of vocals craft a soulful pop sound, unveiling the more melodic side of Shork’s sonic output.

Other highlights on the record include songs like “Contra,” featuring qwasi which delivers a lively beat-driven soundscape full of intricate synth flutters over a lightly punchy beat and winding bass lines, contrasting top lines and dancing vocal samples.

The album closes with “Reverie,” with its vocal sample intro over hushed piano chords, crafting an intimate and immersive sound. Developing throughout, wooshing synth sounds pulse over a grooving beat as stretched vocal leads dance above. With multiple switch ups, the album’s finale serve up an expansive exploration of electronica that distils Shork’s innovative and original sound across 7 epic minutes.

Listen to The Universe below