This 8 track EP is the work of Cylob (Chris Jeffs) and Astrobotnia (AKA Ovuca). The sound is very much what you would expect: rave-ready ‘laptronica’ taking in the more exotic and experimental side of Cylob and the dark, moody breaks of Astrobotnia.

The record kicks off with ‘Got My Pass’ – a heavy breaks-led acid track with a squelchy bassline, mad tempo changes, and the first signs of Cylob’s haunting bell sounds.

‘Chewing The Mint’ uses a cheeky Wagon Christ – like mid-paced breakbeat and adds a touch of doom laden bass reminiscent of Andrea Parker.

‘Ozdrum’ takes more of an Ovuca-esque slant, the beats evoking memories of his astounding live sets. Tuneful percussion provides the melody, accompanied by a rubber band bass-line.

The last track on side A, ‘More Fake Acoustics’, is more dissonant but keeps up the pace, employing what sounds like 20 snare drums and demented bleeps all over the place. The massive bass and poignant synth make it perfect fodder for dark, smoky Rephlex raves.

On the flip ‘Natbocto’ slows it down for some Ovuca-style mid-paced acid-electro darkness. ‘Turn The Mill’ is more playful, with ethnic instrumentation introducing the hook, and lush harmonies being added along the way.

‘Hip Hop Gamelan’ mellows the pace again and does what it says on the tin, adding some trademark atmospheric Ovuca pads. Last track, ‘Electro Works’, is the most experimental: A syncopated 2-step beat provides the foundation for atmospheric and disturbing effects and crashing pianos.

This collaboration is done extremely well and is aimed at the head as well as the feet. For your money you get 30 minutes of mad experimentalism, euphoric harmonies and banging acid lines. Go get.

By Dan

www.rephlex.com

This release is available from WarpMart and Boomkat.