Search - Freeform :: Prowl

Nile reprise

loteq | Regensburg | 07/24/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Freeform is the project of Simon Pyke, a young bedroom producer who has put together a remarkable body of work since the mid-'90s. However, he has never received the attention he really deserves, probably due to his predilection for switching record labels; his current album "Green park" was issued on Sub Rosa, but it is just as difficult to obtain as any of his other efforts except "Prowl". As far as I know, this 30-minute EP is his one and only release for the famous Warp label, and it's no surprise that you can feel the influence of Autechre, Aphex Twin, or Black Dog here. Four tracks of 'nonsense', but in contrast to his completely abstract latter-day work, there's a sense of structure and melody here. The 9-minute title track and "Sticks" have fractured rhythms, sharp digital drum punches, squeaky synths, and other obscure sounds. "Lebanon" with its harsh bass line is more similar to Autechre's mid-'90s work; this track would easily fit onto the "Tri repetae" album. "Brieflei" is the most melodic but also most complex cut here, it comes up with drilling noises, frame drums, and more discernible, airy melodies. Overall, I find Simon's very first album, "Elastic speakers", more varied, but "Prowl" is another absolutely worthwhile item for people who love Warp artists."