Aphex Twin’s Blackbox Life Recorder 21f: A Sonic Exploration of Emotion and Melodicism
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Richard D James, popularly known as Aphex Twin, has been a prolific producer for over three decades, known for his diverse range of musical styles. However, pinning down a definitive Aphex Twin sound is impossible due to the vast array of sounds and sensations he has produced throughout his career. From the Cornish hardcore acid of Caustic Window’s ‘Humanoid Must Not Escape’ to the melancholic piano minimalism of ‘Aisatsana [102]’, his music spans various genres and emotions.
This ability to constantly surprise and defy expectations has been both a strength and a source of frustration for fans. Critics argue that Aphex Twin has often failed to deliver what is expected of him, but this criticism has been part of his journey since his first album, ‘Selected Ambient Works 85-92’, was released to mixed reviews in 1992. Despite the occasional disappointment, James has consistently pushed the boundaries of his music, exploring new avenues while maintaining a connection to his diverse past.
The ‘Cheetah’ EP, released in 2016, initially failed to impress me. It felt like an inward-looking project, created with little regard for the audience. However, it would be unfair to dwell on this, as most of his recent work, including the ‘Syro’ album in 2014, has been a journey of exploration, connecting different elements of his musical style.
As a fan, I try to keep my expectations minimal and remain open-minded. Aphex Twin has guided me more often than not, even if I don’t always realize it immediately. However, I have always hoped for a re-engagement with the emotional core of his music, which is often expressed through his unique strain of melodicism.
The latest EP, ‘Blackbox Life Recorder 21f / in a room7 F760’, showcases Aphex Twin’s ability to capture complex and evanescent emotional states through music. The tracks on this EP, such as ‘Alberto Balsalm’ and ‘Schottkey 7th Path’, convey emotions that are difficult to put into words, yet are conveyed intuitively and precisely through James’ music. It is as if he can express his emotional landscape without the use of language.
The concept of a black box recorder for one’s life may sound negative at first, but in the context of this EP, it represents the sensitivity and introspection that comes with middle age. The music captures a dialectic of regret, melancholy, and joy, serving as a vessel for unspoken thoughts and feelings.
The EP embraces Aphex Twin’s melodic sensibilities, while also showcasing his masterful use of reverb. The tracks create a sonic landscape that feels like exploring the rooms of a vast house, with each room representing a different sound or musical idea. The EP also experiments with different sound environments, creating a sense of depth and richness.
Some tracks, such as ‘In A Room7 F760’, remind me of Aphex Twin’s earlier work, while also incorporating contemporary elements. Others, like ‘Blackbox Life Recorder 22 [Parallax Mix]’, push the bass and effects to create a gothic and sophisticated atmosphere.
Overall, the ‘Blackbox Life Recorder 21f / in a room7 F760’ EP is a captivating and thought-provoking release from Aphex Twin. It defies expectations and offers a glimpse into the complex and elusive emotional states that can be conveyed through music.
