Despite being quite a different entity to its predecessor, V.A.2 feels like a natural development rather than a split from past lineages. Harder tones are present, the sharper edges of C.C.C., but these are then softened and ultimately tamed. A 12” that has already taken pride of place—on the couch.
People treat their records in different ways. I could be kinder to mine, but I could be kinder to people in general. The 12”s that are most loved are probably treated the worst. Sitting on an unused couch, no not on a shelf, they are pulled out time and time again; sometimes they aren’t even removed from the turntable after use! Gasps aside, I don’t mean to maltreat these favorites but sadly that’s what happens.
V.A. 1 on La Beauté Du Négatif may not be an old record, but the face of mine shows the signs of sofa life. A hairline here, a hairline there, a few grubby marks. Then again, a 12” isn’t a museum piece and this three tracker has been thoroughly enjoyed, both at home and in clubs.
The announcement of a brother, number two, sent immediate shivers. But on listening, this latest offering is more of a cousin than a blood sibling. A trio of Italians are stamped onto the white inner, names that will probably mean little to many. C.C.C., Collective Cortina Calda, occupy the A with racing beats of “Untitled.” Snares speed, cymbals snipping at their heels, as a bawdy bassline thumps. Ominous and foreboding, the track takes on a different aspect when pitched back, mellowing the breakneck pace. But the ferocity is not here to stay, the B side taking on the more familiar aspect of V.A.1. Although Cosimo Damiano might be better known for his darkened works as part of Assalti Industriali, for “Norwegian Landscapes” he’s in a reflective techno mood. Stripped synth lines, echo, reverb and gentle pads come together for a stunningly deep track of bordering ambience. And just to keep you guessing, the last installment is, to my ear, live instrumentation. Commodity Place offer the beautifully absorbing “Life Is A Gorgeous Lie”, a work steeped in emotion and 90s nostalgia.
Despite being quite a different entity to its predecessor, V.A.2 feels like a natural development rather than a split from past lineages. Harder tones are present, the sharper edges of C.C.C., but these are then softened and ultimately tamed. A 12” that has already taken pride of place—on the couch.
V.A. 2 is available on La Beauté Du Négatif.
