Glasgow based label Stuff brought out their debut 12" in 2002, a diverse 6 track showcase compilation. With its warm electro, glitched-up cut-up hip-hop and cheeky bootlegs it became one of those records that never left the record bag! ...obviously a lot to live up to but Stuff are back with what is definitely a weighty release for such a young label.

On one side of this split 12" we have 3 tracks from Izu. 'Bad Hair' starts off grating and abrasive but evolves with some subtle but lush pads and echoic noises.

'Jumpers' is melodic from the start, but carries through the same quality of sound and production style.

'North Star' has a more immediate impact. A pounding electro beat is combined with abstract structure and production - with thrashy synth noises layered over a looped melody.

On the flip we have a single 14 minute composition - 'The Kangaroo Bank Of Mr Hanky Frank' by The Andies. As the title suggests, they've thrown in a few bizarre safari park samples but the track has a poignant and solemn start with striking melodies. Before you know it there's a beat box and an understated electro rhythm, and a chunky synth bass kicks in.

The Andies, clearly skilled at structural manipulation and progression, have melded together an array of styles effortlessly - whilst Izu's compositions have rough yet haunting and evolving beauty, hinting at artists like Autechre and Richard Devine.

As a label Stuff evidently have a formidable amount of talent up their sleeves and this release - although representing just one facet of their repertoire - has the makings of a future classic!

By Suzie.

www.stuffrecords.co.uk