Intended
to be used by DJs, this vinyl-only release of breakbeats by Medeski, Martin,
and Wood drummer Billy Martin (aka illy B) contains 13 unique beats produced
by Martin and long-time MMW collaborator Scotty Hard. Though it is not
intended to be listened to straight-through, Martin and Hard infuse the
tracks with other sounds - blurping synthesizers, rhythmic static, and
assorted noises - that make listening a linear experience. Martin's ultra-melodic,
super-sensitive drumming absolutely shines here, making a case for Martin
as a truly revolutionary innovator of the instrument. The pieces are structured
like songs, with other parts coming in at appropriate times. It's hard
to imagine what DJs might do with this music because Martin has made each
track so complete -- though that process of envisioning is certainly one
of the pleasures of listening to it.
--
Jesse Jarnow
AMG
All Music Guide
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