Igloo Magazine has covered several (debut) compilations in the attempt to encapsulate and digest the sounds collected while keeping an open ear for creativity and inspiration. At times this creative element seems to phase itself out while the inspiration to collect these sounds fades into obscurity. What’s left is a sincere body of work that doesn’t really grasp the attention of the audience’s ear.
This is not the case with Region Zero.
Known for releasing quality electronics by means of MP3’s on their website (feat. Zainetica, Mint, Bal-A-Klah-Va, Mediumdan, Cheju, Karmoy), Boltfish are among a handful of young labels pushing the edges of cinematic electronics into the right direction. This time around they’re making even more of an impact with the release of Region Zero –a compilation “sampler” that highlights the work of existing members and a few new(er) musicians. The first half of Region Zero focuses on the rhythmic complexities of electro and unusual electronica while the last half delves into the experimental magnetism of minimal sound-sculptures and indie-electronic flavors. Looking at this in point-form structure, it might look/sound like this:
Region Zero :: A Boltfish Recordings Sampler
- (01) :: Gorgeous rhythmic electro-tinged grooves.
- (02) :: Analog infested humanoid electronica.
- (03) :: Electro-ambience for extraterrestrial communication.
- (04) :: Robotic/analog electronics w/ a Kraftwerk chassis.
- (05) :: Emotional twitches for thoughtful switches.
- (06) :: Upbeat electro transmissions for space travel.
- (07) :: Factory rhythm’n ambience meets Gescom.
- (08) :: Flickering through memories w/ a guitar.
- (09) :: Nature buzzes w/ the pulse of classical electricity.
- (10) :: Experimental indie-glitch smorgasbord.
- (11) :: All-Consuming theme to your childhood dreams.
- (01) :: Bal-a-klah-va “Anamorph”
- (02) :: Zainetica “Disorder”
- (03) :: Cheju “Camellia”
- (04) :: Karmøy “Klem”
- (05) :: Ochre “Sticklebrick Symphony”
- (06) :: J.Auer “Silent Starlight”
- (07) :: Sveto the Fool “Con ot nu”
- (08) :: Richard Houghten “Untitled #3”
- (09) :: Mint “Growing Older”
- (10) :: Countripsyde “Thunder Theatre for Collapsing Nation”
- (11) :: BBWax “Morning Glory”Stunning artwork should also be noted. A bright digi-pak casing is drenched with the attractive hues of orange and yellow. A hallway leading to a closed door waits patiently for the listener to open. What rests beyond is the enriched electronics of the Boltfish collective. A sound that is absorbed, and a panoramic view that is all encompassing. If you are willing to accept a 2-part collection of varied electronic/experimental sounds, then Region Zero will open the door for you.
This compilation would definitely fit well between n5MD’s MD8 and Rednetic’s One Point One releases.
Region Zero is out now on Boltfish Recordings.
