From the n5MD label comes the two compilations MD1 and MD2. Here are the
tracklistings and my reviews:
MD1:
spark - eopi
arovane - levd/a:ctrel
precenphix - redleaves
o2 - 0002
lilienthal - sucrosesand
ml - drg/n/drp
rivel - de-gress
vcam - dirwhildagmer
eu - tsutu
neutral - recoil
The first release from the n5MD label sounds pretty strong, and most of the
tracks are pretty good. It's definitely an enjoyable listen, although not
entirely groundbreaking. I can't help but thinking that a compilation like
this could've blown me away 4 years ago, but many of the sounds and
progressions are pretty standard now.
Most of the tracks fall into the "crunchy percussion, pretty melody"
category, with some nice variations (actual drum sounds in idm!). As
compilations go, it's pretty solid, and since each track is supposedly
unique to the release, it's nice that the tracks work together so well. A
pleasant release if you're looking for more of this type of sound, or are
big fans of the included artists.
MD2:
cenik - oepsch
lusine icl - don't interfere
lexaunculpt - the conversation gone awry
tim koch - poly800vs.6581
jvox - cadona
eaven - jethom
proem - laid back off
quench - nurture
spark - array
endorphins - epilogue
funckarma - nn
vcam - bild/gelm
The second release from the n5MD label follows in the consistency of the
first release, and this compilation is actually stronger, as far as
compilations go. None of the tracks are amazingly stand-out, but most of
the contributions fit well and sound good. MD2 doesn't sound as "pretty"
as MD1, but it's more consistent. I still don't see what the big deal is
about lexaunculpt, but then I remember the large number of "video game"
fans on the list.
My only gripe is that many of the songs on both compilations are "playing
with their cards face up," meaning that most of the tricks used in the
songs are pretty standard for most of what qualifies as IDM, and even stuff
that doesn't qualify as IDM. Perhaps I'm just becoming more familiar with
the music making process used by most of the current crop of idm artists,
but it certainly takes some of the magic out. Still, these two releases
are pretty good - better than your average compilation.
cheers,
/derek
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