Skoud is the shortened name for Russian-born electronica artist Simon Koudriavtsev. After leaving St. Petersburg where he concentrated on singing, he moved with his family to Sweden where he became an accomplished drummer. Now residing in Cumbria, Skoud makes his first appearance for Carlisle-based Motivesounds Recordings. Perhaps not too surprisingly given his varied background, the sound of 'Systems And Drafts' is initially hard to pinpoint; sometimes it appears to consist of a random set of clicks and beats over some sinister background atmospheres. Delve deeper into these thirteen short tracks, however, and there are some wonderful moments to be discovered. There are at least three tracks here which share the mysterious melodies of Boards Of Canada with one of the trio, 'Beat 1-1', virtually a pastiche. Yet further investigation uncovers some inventive techno ('Bagtag') whilst 'System 20 Live Edit' possesses a sped-up, addictive tune. Not everything Skoud tries comes off but by not dwelling on one particular theme for too long, he avoids self-indulgence and makes this a fresh and lively album to listen to.