The Phantom Psychologist: How Kenn Dust Heals Through Future Garage

I had the chance to chat with Stijn Verrecas, also known as Kenn Dust. He shared the sequel to his track “Mindrift,” which I recently reviewed. As the author himself put it:

“Mindrift was the tension, Downpour is the release of that tension (my feelings into the music).”

I couldn’t pass up the continuation of this story, so let’s look into “Downpour” and see if it truly releases the tension built up during the long introspection of “Mindrift.”

Sound Architecture

“Downpour” starts almost instantly, skipping the long build-ups typical of future garage. It seems this is becoming Kenn Dust’s signature style—a trick that works well for a modern audience that isn’t used to long intros. By the 15th second, you are already immersed in the sonic colors of a pulsing pad and a thick sub-bass that feels as viscous as hazelnut paste.

Against the backdrop of dark, broken rhythms, the tension constantly accumulates. Towards the end of this section, additional synths layer in, and you can almost hear a cello in the distance. I’d call this segment “The Peak.” The sound here builds up energy and anxiety that is about to overflow, demanding a resolution—which the author provides in the second half of the work.

Silence. Light piano lines cut through the pillars of rain and your sadness, while the rising sub-bass, vocals, and cello seem to whisper: “I understand you, friend.” With these words, you are plunged back into the initial atmosphere, but it no longer feels overwhelming. You are no longer alone in your state.

Why Listen?

It’s fascinating how differently the same sound feels after hearing the transition in the middle of “Downpour.” You feel as if you are standing emptied under the downpour and thunder, completely void of emotion, simply feeling the raindrops slide down your skin. The short breakbeat ending speaks exactly to this.

This track is a successful therapy for those on the verge of breaking. This evening, Kenn Dust becomes your phantom psychologist, absorbing your emotions and clearing space for new thoughts and reflection. Hang in there!

P.S. “Downpour” is a natural step forward on the path to emotional cleansing. Read more about melancholy and catharsis in the artist’s work in our review of “Whitefall”.