Himawari
Swayzak
2000
by Roy Luckett
March 24th, 2008
This electronic duo (it seems like many electronic acts fall into the category of duo) forge elements of minimalist techno, tech-house and even modern dub into a winning combination. The sound ranges from the house stylings of “Caught in This Affair” and “Kensai Rising” to the electro and Yaz-inspired “State of Grace” featuring female vocalist Kristy Hawkshaw. They even throw in what sounds like a Scottish child reciting poetry over dance music. And if you really want to experience phat basslines, there is the closing track “Betek.” Definitely worth exploring.
Posted in Electronic , House , Techno
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Alien Radio
Slam
2001
by Roy Luckett
March 24th, 2008
One of Glasgow’s top electronic duos treats the world to techno that gets you moving on the dance floor with tracks like “Positive Education” and “Virtuoso.” Not all the tracks are necessarily ideal for home listening, but if you need some beats on your run or while driving, enjoy!
Posted in Electronic , Techno
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Journey Inwards
LTJ Bukem
2000
by Roy Luckett
March 24th, 2008
At the time of Journey Inwards’ release, LTJ Bukem’s stature in the electronic community was immense; he was widely regarded as one of the prime innovators of drum-n-bass electronica, which is characterized by fast tempo, broken beat drums (generally between 160 to 180 beats per minute) with heavy, often intricate basslines. This is a two-disc set, a good value if you buy it on Amazon. While some critics were disappointed with the slower tempo of the music, I found it refreshing that Bukem chose to take a relaxed approach to this particular sub-genre of electronic music by emphasizing strings, jazz, and a pinch of R&B.
Posted in Drum-n-Bass , Electronic
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Dubnobasswithmyheadman
Underworld
1994
by Roy Luckett
March 24th, 2008
Ah, Underworld. The nineties were truly their decade, as they were one of the “it” groups of electronica. Before their music was prominently featured in the film “Trainspotting” (remember the scene with the baby on the ceiling?), they released this gem, combining Karl Hyde’s sinister and monotonous vocals with taut bass and relentless grooves.
Posted in Electronic , Techno
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Second Toughest in the Infants
Underworld
1996
by Roy Luckett
March 24th, 2008
Okay, here’s the deal. This is not Underworld’s best album; Dubnobasswithmyheadman is. However, two of their best songs are on this album. “Pearl’s Girl” was probably the most popular track on the album and further aided the group in attracting more listeners. The other track, my favorite, is a nearly seventeen-minute epic in three parts, “Juanita/Kiteless/To Dream of Love,” that’s astounding in scope.
Posted in Electronic , Techno
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