Twelve pieces of precise and expert acid dance that really highlights just how low-key something can be and still have a magnificent impact.
Uncomplicated and accessible on many levels
It’s unlikely you’ve made it this far without at least having one of Luke Vibert’s tracks ingrained into your memory. Arguably one of the most prolific producers out there, we’ve a lot to thank him for including the most-excellent I Love Acid nights that I have been more than happy to leave some of my braincells at over the years. Putting pen to paper once more he delivers us GRIT.—twelve pieces of precise and expert acid dance that really highlights just how low-key something can be and still have a magnificent impact.
Easing us in to the proceedings with “Afterning,” it appears that this is going to be a rather customary outing in the world of acid but you may be forgiven for thinking so. It’s not long until the curtains are drawn and the true expertise is unleashed. One skill in particular keeps drawing my attention and that’s polyrhythm. It’s only the second track in and “Decay Hole” introduces us to the first occurrence with its still-simple rhythm but jarring stab-chords that make everything sinister.
Another is Luke’s established use of well-curated samples, both vocal and instrumental. “Disco Derriere” goes to show that you don’t really need extensive effects, transformations or variety in a given piece—what things really come down to is timing.
Therein lies the beauty of this album; uncomplicated and accessible on many levels, the whole thing sounds like a how-to course in guaranteed ways to get someone onto a dance-floor. The masterful use of simple yet effective production skills are a massive nod to once-playful days, where all people really needed was the most basic of equipment.
Please don’t misunderstand me, I am a fan of chaos as much as the next individual but the world of electronic music can be a minefield. The ease by which one can be caught in a sea of increasing complexity is alarming and it’s at these times releases like this are at their most important, to remind us of our roots and tell us: “It’s OK to be simple”.
Well-timed minor transitions and mutations ::
With the simplicity comes plenty of opportunity, well-timed minor transitions and mutations of sonic elements that lead to inevitable twitching, grooving and downright-funk. Most apparent is the classic treatment of melodies and bass-lines—a lot of this sounds live, improvised and studio-jam. However it was made, it’s got me pointing my fingers all over the place.
If I had to pick out a moment it’s going to be the killer penultimate track that is “Xanalog.” It refuses to be put in any one box and will surprise you just enough to keep you on your toes all the way throughout. I can see this one tearing up some clubs.
This is by no means a groundbreaking release from Vibert, but does it need to be? His stalwart sense of duty to the scene has produced something incredibly strong and faithful and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that in my books. Squelch on.
GRIT. is available on Hypercolour. [Bandcamp]
