SECURE SHOPPING
Denis Bog makes the transition from the relatively obscure Baum label to underground staple Echochord. Like the rest of the Danish outlet’s releases, the overall mood here is evocative and introspective, but Bog belies the notion that the dub/ambient end of techno is incapable of providing unsettling sounds.
Drawing more on Biosphere’s legacy than Basic Channel’s back catalogue, Bog presents “Minus & Plus” against a backdrop of tight, rolling drums and prowling chords. Like a radar tracking unknown bodies in space, every pulsing wave brings with it a sense of foreboding and menace. “Demoon” is less eerie, and it finds Bog in a mood approaching playfulness, as slow motion grooves underpin an undulating groove and the kind of wistful dub shanty sounds that’s audibly inspired by Tikiman and Rhythm & Sound.
It only proves to be a brief respite from the prevailing mood however; Hot Flush artist Sigha’s take on “Minus & Plus” reverts to the sense of menace found on the original, while pushing it towards the dancefloor. A sinister, panning rhythm is the centrepiece, but the cold, almost detached percussive twists and sinister bleeps make this an unusual, eerie pleasure. Approach this release with caution and you’ll have a great time.
Richard Brophy
