English experimental electronics was always notable for its flexibility, pleasant sounding, melodiousness and innovations able to widen the horizons of listeners' sound perception. In this English manner the new work of English musician Keef Baker was recorded on German label Hymen records.Album Redeye bursts out from the very beginning in the first lively track "Kirkstall Morrisons", its melodies remind a little bit Global Goon and production of Rephlex rec. But the basis of this album is much more broken, syncopated rhythmical structure. From the first seconds of its sounding Kirkstall Morrisons touches you deeply and for a long period of time. The second composition "Derbyshire Dark" has its own special mood and nostalgia, very pleasant and professional shift from drill'n'bass to the more calm idm.
Nostalgia is replaced by the series murderer "Tombola Thrill Killer". Now the listener gets acquainted with the dark side of Keef Baker - absolutely different instruments, guitars with intentinal 'dirty' sound, aggressive drum line. Everything sounds like a soundtrack for some films with serial murderers and maniacs. Threatening track for uneducated listeners.
The next composition "Bobfoc" - trip through unsafe places, unfriendly atmosphere, the surrounding street panorama casts anxiousness over its visitors. It's easy to imagine prickly wind blowing rubbish and papers along pavements...
"Qaop space" is the next change of mood waiting for us, jolly syncopated idm rhythms return to us together with modulating toy melodies, something similar could be heard at the beginning of the album.
Already at the middle of the album Redeye you understand that this work doesn't belong to the category of albums pushing you in deep depression. On the contrary, this record rouses great sympathy and leaves very exalted and light feelings after listening.
"An Interrogation" is very much alike with the wonderful guitar team Mogwai but played by one multiinstrumentalist Keef Baker.
The whole second part of the album, starting with "Eric Dawsons Porcelain God", "Ips Terroni" is recorded in one melodious idm style without any significant experiments out of the standards of idm music.
"Thalamess" is the separate monument for the hard and uncompromising music, due to its drive this composition reminds some kind of an unexpected tornado. Final composition of this release "The Only Way" is some kind of lullaby, for time travellers it's high time to go back home. Nice and romantic album, one thing that bothers is that Redeye was made in the ordinary frame of one musical style. But if you like this style, this disc won't pass by you.
- Keef Baker
- Hymen records