Chemistry Lessons Volume 1.1 Coursework by Chris Carter
Three high profile remixers step up for ex-Throbbing Gristle man's new EP
Following his well-received album Chemistry Lessons Volume One, the first in seventeen years from the ex-Throbbing Gristle man, Chris Carter is back with an excellent new remix EP called Chemistry Lessons Volume 1.1 Coursework. Three esteemed producers have worked their magic on tracks from the album and the resulting quality highlights the enormous level of respect Carter holds in the world of electronic music today. Before the invited guests step in though, Carter presents a new solo track called Bongo Glow (previously only available on the Japanese edition of the album).
Recorded after the album was released in March, Bongo Glow warmly takes grip with its addictive, bass melody and thick, analogue vibe, laced with manipulated vocals that swirl around in glorious Technicolor. The vocal element in particular reminiscent of Blissters (from the album) which is clearly a well considered decision as the Radiophonic Workshop (yes, the BBC sound effects unit! - 'though no idea who that actually is) take the very same track and turn it on its head, replacing light with dark and melody with menacing mood. A remix coup indeed.
On the back of his slow burning new album, Chris Liebing produces my highlight of the EP. His take on Tones Map extends what was originally a short, powerful track, by adding a warm bassy noise atop an effective 4x4 rhythm, which flourishes into an emotive monster. It wouldn't have sounded out of place on Burn Slow. And ironically, while Liebing has the long-standing reputation of a Techno heavyweight, it's Daniel Avery who actually delivers the real heavyweight Techno. His reworking of Uysring stays true to the original vibe, chugging along nicely with its Dubby, electrified bass.
- Rating: 9/10
- Listens: 14
- Highlight: Tones Map (Chris Liebing Burn Slow Remix)
- Label: Mute
- Release Date: 19th October 2018