Personally I'd love to hear Tom re-explore some of his earlier sounds (coherent jazz, intricate, painstakingly obsessive and classic rhythmic innovations) like this album, Budakhan Mindphone, and of course Hard Normal Daddy.. Songs like "Squarepusher Theme", "Tundra", "Kodack", and so many others are (imho) the essence of what electronic music perfectionism is about... The more recent sounds he has delved into (the kind of stunts he pulls on his live shows) once had their charm but there is hardly much enduring in his late endeavours, I feel, as compared with this album, which is unmistakably one of the most precious vinyl LPs that I've ever owned. I suspect hard drugs might have something to do with it, which would be quite shameful indeed.. (of course, only if in case of a creative burn-out) This album for me is a 5/5.
"Squarepusher Theme" is one of the best jazzy/dnb tracks ever recorded. "Tundra" is one of the best jungle songs ever, that noone is hearing. Big ups to Squarepusher for producing some of the best music of our time.
Review by miccomAug 02, 2001(edited over 8 years ago)
A must have for fans of the genre (drum'n bass, idm, drill'n bass)!! Combines lightning fast rhythmic drumsequencing with nice warm analog melodies. Very catchy and still amongst his best work. 'Theme From Ernest Borgnine' sounds like it was so much fun to make that there's absolutely nothing you can do yourself but have an equally great time listening to it. Totally uplifting experience. 'Squarepusher Theme' and 'UFO's over Leytonstone' (the last one is also playable at both 33rpm and 45rpm, so pick up the vinyl) are stand-outs as well. Highly recommended. Buy this before you buy 'Go plastic' or 'Selection Sixteen'.