1999, shit
What a year. It was the best of monkeys and the worst of monkeys (okay I
will stop the literary puns nows). But it indeed was an odd year. People
got behind us (which was nice) and people got in our way (is there any
facet in life in which petty politics don't effect you?). We succeded and
failed. Recognized and ignored. Kinda nice actually. We did our own
thing and we will continue to. The label is taking on a life of it's own.
Defining itself.
so what about the music this year? DSP abuse was rampant. Clone sounds
are in and minimal techno got respect. My tastes moved away from the
classic Ae/Mas/Skam/Warp sound. I hardly buy music like that anymore.
Some labels greatly impressed me. Schematic was in top form (musically)
when it came to their vinyl only releaes. I think they stumbeled on their
two CD releases though. Toshoklabs came on the scene this year and have
left quite an impact. Dated to me represents everything that is right
about small innovative labels. Other labels that caught my attention were
Ant-zen and Hymen. Perhaps it was just my mood this year but their
material worked for me. And they don't fit just one genre. Anywhere from
industrial to ambient. Emenate is also another label that is leaving an
impression. The lilenthal (sp?) CD is incredible. Very seldom do I let a
CD repeat after it finishes. This one I did. Lastly, Warp's only saving
grace this year was putting out records by the two lone swordsman.
Of couse the above is an over simplification. There were other labels and
other releases.
This is the year I really got into Mouse on Mars and their side projects.
I still think that lithops is one of the most innovative acts out there.
Then there is minimalism. Brinkman, hawtin and stewart being the most
recognizable to everyone. Brinkman continues to amaze with his sound
ideas. Soul center was a supprise and I was glad for it. Hawtin
continues to be a pioneer. Who knows what his next step is. Theorem also
was one to take note of. Then there was Stewart walker. The perfect
album to get lost to. The space between beats was just important as any
other facet on the CD. Lastly there was snd. A hard listen but rewarding.
There were many others but these come easiest to mind.
the future? my money is on dub.
-daniel: Head Monkey: Mad Monkey Records:
http://monkey.eliteware.com
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