After a confident existence on MP3.com and a few compilation appearances, Minneapolis’ Matthew Arnold finally releases his debut l.p. Pug Times on the celebrated Toytronic label. Based on the few tracks I’d already heard online, I was generally prepared for greatness from Pug Times but I had no real conception of just how great it would be.
For anyone who has pondered the meaning of the word “dance” in Intelligent Dance Music, I challenge you to listen to Pug Times. First, I must say the production is fantastic, displaying Arnold’s obvious abilities to compose mature, accessible, and highly enjoyable electronic music. It would be difficult to choose stand-outs here but one that certainly comes to mind is a beautiful remix Matthew did for Astronauts Wife call “Cape Canaveral,” which was wisely included in this release. This is brilliant electronica, not overly complex or experimental, but full of warm, flowing melodies, sharp, addictive beats, and memorable bass and synth-lines.
Each track has its own unique personality; building and expanding upon existing patterns, while signature beats compliment each melodic note. Mr. Projectile will certainly shine as one of the bright new stars in the current IDM scene with the release of this outstanding LP and without the stigma of being another Autechre replica. Highly recommended.
