Radio Massacre International
Borrowed Atoms
If you track RMI’s output to date there did seem to be a trend emerging. Their opening salvos in the form of ‘Frozen North’ and ‘Republic’ flexed their sequencing talents and were perhaps their most "immediate" works to date. ‘Knutsford in May’ and ‘Organ Harvest’ adopted a more thoughtful approach which inevitably demands more of the listener. Their private releases ventured even further into experimental territory. Extrapolation suggests that they were winding themselves up for something seriously "challenging". I’m pleased to announce that ‘Borrowed Atoms’ is not that album .

Don’t get me wrong. RMI have not gone "commercial". There’s plenty hear to frighten the neighbours and prompt skyward glances from your other half. What they have also produced however is plenty of material which relies heavily on complex multi-layered sequencing. And when I say complex, I mean complex! . These guys are producing patterns which even after numerous plays are difficult to fully appreciate. Of course to single out the sequencing does an injustice to the other strengths of this album. The atmospherics, textures, and deft guitar playing are all first class. What I am saying is that when RMI choose to present their full repertoire of talents the result is one which any self respecting fan of Electronic Music cannot ignore.

So, quite simply this is a superb album not to be missed. For a "trio lacking in imagination, ideas, and co-ordination" (as one review recently described RMI) it’s a remarkable achievement. (GG)

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