The Release of “Speak Easy”
Grand Alliance Music is gearing up for a captivating release set for March 31, 2026: the instrumental track titled “Speak Easy.” This collaboration showcases the creative synergy between Cryptochronica, led by Chris Shimanoff, and the duo Willdabeast, consisting of Will Glazier and Dan de Lisle. Their partnership reflects a natural evolution within the vibrant Pacific Northwest music scene, resulting in a piece that fuses their distinct sounds and philosophies.
Collaboration Between Artists
The creation of “Speak Easy” has been a dynamic process, involving multiple exchanges of ideas and drafts between the two acts. This back-and-forth allowed them to hone in on a clear direction. The final product is not tethered to a single genre; instead, it weaves together elements from various styles, making it ideal for both club settings and broader performance formats. The emphasis on groove, arrangement, and tonal quality makes it a standout piece in contemporary instrumental music.
Artist Profiles: Cryptochronica
Cryptochronica hails from Portland and has become synonymous with heavy, groove-centric productions. Chris Shimanoff’s work blends freeform bass with glitch-based sound design and psychedelic textures, drawing inspiration from his roots in Hawaii’s rich reggae and dub scenes. This background infuses his electronic music with a palpable rhythmic foundation. With over a decade of experience, Shimanoff’s portfolio includes releases like INTERSECT and the Deconstruct EP, showcasing versatility and breadth. Moreover, as an instructor at Producer Dojo, he shapes the next generation of music producers while also having his work featured in notable franchises, such as Disney’s Star Wars.
The Willdabeast Sound
In contrast, Willdabeast’s approach emphasizes a fusion of electronic composition and live instrumentation. The duo is renowned for their inclusion of brass and woodwind instruments, seamlessly integrating these elements into their production. Their music traverses the realms of experimental bass, downtempo funk, and psychedelic electronica, marking them as innovative trailblazers. They focus on diverse sampling techniques and live performance dynamics, allowing their tracks to evolve naturally and organically during sets.
The Unique Chemistry in “Speak Easy”
In “Speak Easy,” the collaboration reflects a meeting of musical methods and practices. Cryptochronica’s focus on low-end richness and intricate sound design lays the groundwork, while Willdabeast’s live horns and rhythm-driven contributions significantly enhance the piece. This merging creates a sonically rich landscape that echoes both artists’ musical identities without overshadowing one another.
Connection to the Willdabeast & Friends Project
This track is not just a standalone release; it is integral to the upcoming Willdabeast & Friends project, scheduled for June 2026. As one of the defining tracks of this collaborative effort, “Speak Easy” embodies the spirit of collective creativity and the strong community ties fostered through Grand Alliance Music. This initiative highlights the interconnected nature of artists within this label, showcasing how relationships can bear fruit in the form of innovative musical efforts.
Looking Ahead
As anticipation builds for the release of “Speak Easy,” fans of Cryptochronica and Willdabeast alike can expect to immerse themselves in a soundscape that challenges conventional categorizations, offering a fresh auditory experience. The groundwork laid in this collaboration sets the stage not just for their projects but also hints at the possibilities that arise when artists come together to explore their creative limits.
