More Basic Channel classics on CD!
Steward Willons | Illinois | 07/18/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"It's been a long wait, but Basic Channel has finally given us another compilation of their distinctive dub techno. I gave the previous volume a very positive review, but its value was somewhat diminished by the fact that many of its tracks were in edited form. Fortunately, that's not the case with this follow-up compilation. You get six of their classics in all their uncut, repetitive glory.
Finding the original vinyl is probably out of the question for most people and this is definitely the next best thing. If you're like me, you'll tolerate digital downloads if nothing else is available, but even at 256kb, MP3s are still lossy. While I'm sure these cuts sound best on vinyl, the CD sounds great. It's rich with plenty of detail, even with the notoriously cloudy Basic Channel sound.
Chances are, if you're reading this review, you already know these songs. I'll give a few comments on the off that someone new to Basic Channel is reading. If you know BC, then you're already convinced that you need this CD and you can stop reading the review.
Things start out with "Enforcement", one of the most difficult BC tracks around. It always strikes me as a little too intense with the in-your-face 16th note bass synth, which seems to nail your ears to the back of your head. The biggest issue I have is that there's absolutely no space and your ears get no rest. One of the unique things about BC is their songs always have a lot of space for their dub echos, but that's not the case here.
Next up is the classic "Phylyps Trak", which you've probably heard on techno compilations. This is the original mix, and even though it exists in maybe four or five different forms, this is one of two that you need to own. The other is not included on this CD, but it's worth tracking down. I'm referring to "Phylyps Rmx" on the Lyot 12". It's available as a digital download and I would highly recommend it. "Phylyps Trak II/II" is decent, but not my favorite version of the tune. Regardless, it's nice to have a great sounding copy on CD.
Octagon and Octaedre are companion tracks that create a sort of fun house mirror effect. Octagon seems to be the "normal" version, while Octaedre is a distorted reflection. It's one of their faster tracks, but still has a lot of space in the texture. Echos send synth blips from right to left, repeating endlessly, all drenched in the familiar BC reverb.
The glaring omission, in my opinion anyway, is Quadrant's original mix of "Q1.1". Although the first Basic Channel compilation featured different variations on Q1.1, it didn't include the original. Since it's one of their all-time greatest tracks, I really want to own it on CD. Because it's not included on either CD, I also recommend downloading it from Amazon's MP3 store. If you get the Quadrant EP, you should have everything you need.
This is an essential purchase for fans of techno. It's minimal, strange, and at times, uninviting, but with some patience, you'll discover the gems that make up Basic Channel's small discography. Buy it and enjoy!"
Another must have!!!
the-ONE-and-HOLY | Safe Haven, OH | 06/05/2009
(4 out of 5 stars)
"the basic channel cannon i had thought couldn't get much better than what it was. but with each release it seems they tweak and arrange tracks in a way that you have never heard before. this album is no exception. these tracks are stretched to capacity with a much harder approach. i am used to basic channel having a more abstract feel but this is much more direct and to the point,which i like as well. definately worth checkin out."
Track Listings (6) - Disc #1