9. Octave Minds – Octave Minds
Octave Minds is the second time electro pioneer Boys Noize and self-appointed music genius Chilly Gonzales have collaborated, and like their previous work, Octave Minds sees Gonzales and Ridha on imperious form. Standout tracks are ‘Done Deal’, the super-funky ‘Together’ and the driving, big-hitting ‘Anthem’. That, however, is if we’re thinking in terms of single tracks. Where this album really shines is as a continuous piece. The more atmospheric tracks complement the more energetic – there’s no danger of listening fatigue here. The overall flow of the album is well managed and, surprisingly for a record in this era, the dynamic range is noticeable; audio is often delicate, at other times pounding. Obvious thought has been given to the intro track as an opener, outro track as a closer, and the overall layout.
Clear care has been taken with the production of every track, with the electronic elements sitting beautifully behind the piano toplines, which are never swamped despite their complexity. Gonzales’ influence is apparent in the musicality of the pieces, every track being technically and creatively accomplished, while Ridha seems to have worked on adding just the right amount of low end thump and atmospheric shimmer. The result is an album that transcends the work of both artists – the grail in terms of collaboration. It’s rare that I’ve been as awestruck on a first listen to an album, and several listens later it’s just as good. I’d highly recommend you get your hands on this and hear it for yourself.
Written by James Brown
