International Observer Members, Gear & Sound

International Observer is a musical project spearheaded by Tom Bailey, known for his work as a keyboardist, songwriter, and producer. Originating from Bailey's transition to New Zealand, the group delves into the realms of dub and NZ reggae, drawing on the country's rich reggae culture as a source of inspiration. International Observer serves as a canvas for Bailey's exploration of dub, a genre he has cherished since his post-punk days with The Thompson Twins. Through albums like Seen, Heard, and Felt, Bailey crafts intricate, immersive soundscapes, solidifying the group's presence in the world of atmospheric reggae-infused dub.

International Observer’s sound is characterized by its deep, ambient dub textures, which are both hypnotic and rhythmically intricate. The music thrives on layers of spacious, reverberant synths that create an enveloping sonic environment. Bailey's use of synthesizers like the Oberheim OB-Xa and the Sequential Circuits Prophet-5 contributes to the lush, ethereal quality of the sound. The incorporation of the AMS DMX 15-80S Digital Delay enhances the music's expansive feel, adding depth and echo to the rhythmic patterns. This, combined with the subtle groove of a Fender Jazz Bass, anchors the compositions in a warm, bass-heavy foundation. The interplay of these elements results in a sound that is both soothing and immersive, inviting listeners to lose themselves in its rich, ambient layers.