Aprox. — Bad Music EP
As with other music from this subculture (Doormouse, Dev/Null), Aprox.'s production here is heavily distorted and lo fi, in keeping with his "not giving a fuck". Luckily, he knows how to make a lot out of a little, and the sound found here is quite powerful. The distortion is pleasing to the ear in its unique way, almost like the beats were run through a guitar amp.
For sheer compositional prowess, the two versions of "Elbow Knock" are the best and most complex tracks on the release. Cut-up rhythmic structures emerge only to collapse, reform and again demolish themselves. It's far from danceable, but this is clearly intentional, and it's wonderful brain food.
"Tissues and Candles", with its circling music box tones, is the obligatory 'lonely bedroom soliloquy' IDM track as per Aphex Twin, Autechre, etc. It's emotional and immediately likeable, but there are thousands of tracks like this out there, and I find the rest of the EP to contain more of a distinctive flair.
Elsewhere Aprox. tends toward aggression. "Responsibility" has very distorted industrial style vocals dripping bitterness and desensitization, for an effect not unlike some of the newer Kid 606 tracks with vocals, very punk in its intentional dischordant ugliness.
This track and "Skincrawler (with Pedigree)" have more straightforward, midtempo dance grooves that bring them closer to an EBM sound. The sleazy, oil-soaked vocals in the latter track create an atmosphere quite well, recalling the best moments of Pig (Raymond Watts).
Most surprising of all is "Darkest Day (with Roy and Emily Boswell)", an understated glitch pop tune with a watery guitar progression and melancholic vocals. The lush atmosphere and clicking beat are closer to Radiohead or Bjork than to any of the other music on the EP. It has a very honest, 'first take' feel to it that gives it a certain ennui, and I enjoy it very much.
Aprox.'s "Bad Music EP" was clearly created with limited means, yet displays remarkable ambition. There are a surprising number of styles found on this 23 minute release, and all executed in a natural, expressive manner. This is an example of the refreshing eclecticism and lack of pretention that is found in the best DIY music. This EP is highly recommended to fans of breakcore, digital hardcore, noise, industrial, etc.