(02.25.05) These two records slipped under the radar somewhere between March and August of 2004 –when they really should have received more attention. It’s likely to happen, however, with the plethora of labels consistently trying to release something different. And although we may have heard similar sounds before, both Mr. Incognito and Toxedo set quite a statement by complimenting each other on their debut releases for this Dresden, Germany-based label called Sleepy City.
Choke full of gorgeous pads brimming with inspirational appeal in the form of electro-synthetic music, Mr. Incognito’s First EP has severally contorted sounds that flex, refract and meander, leaving him at the top of his game; check “Sener 6” and “Manoxa” for examples. On “Tendion,” a cell-phone symphony of beautifully constructed yet erratically decomposed electronics bounces alongside a haphazard bass-line. “Byt” has a revealing feel with its swirl of macroscopic atmospherics. “X-1” blends the rhythmic harmonies of Plaid with uplifting force fields of melodies. What a great piece of wax, well worth the search.
On the 4-track 12″ EP by Toxedo called Remote Closeness, burning walls of electro meld with sliced vocal highlights; syncopated spheres of sound are maneuvered and directed with precision beat-work. The title track unleashes experiments in sound-architecture blending the musical qualities of Brothomstates and Sonogram with perfection (what a nice collaboration that would be). On the equally gratifying “For Julianne,” Toxedo buries a field of minimal clips and clacks with thoughtful, drifting moods. “Momentum” subtly waves across the ocean with its casual melodic flickering and downbeat pulse while the closure, “Thank You,” picks up the pace with an incredible electro / hip-hop groove conjuring what we heard on Aphelion’s excellent Click 12″ EP for the now defunct Defocus label. Thumbs up.
Both EP’s are out now and come highly recommended. While Toxedo’s release reflects a soothing sonic attraction, Mr. Incognito contrasts this with a more robust electronic punch.
Related posts ::
Sleepy Town Manufacture :: Inspired by You (Sutemos, MP3)
Planet Underground :: Mister Incognito’s Secret Lab (Elektrokuehlung)
Sand Circles :: Motor City / Motor City Remixes (Posh Isolation)
Adam Johnson & Blamstrain :: CD Reviews (Merck)
3 in 1 Mini-Reviews :: Lux Nigra :: Charhizma :: Morr Music
