Description
#aphextwin #vinyl #vinylrecords
Aphex Twin’s Selected Ambient Works 85-92, first released in 1992, stands as a cornerstone in the evolution of electronic music. This album, a collection of ethereal soundscapes and innovative beats, has been reissued multiple times, yet it remains as fresh and influential as ever. Often hailed as a gateway into the vast world of Richard D. James, better known as Aphex Twin, the album continues to resonate with new generations of listeners while maintaining its status as a seminal work in the ambient and techno genres.
Born Richard David James in Limerick, Ireland, and raised in Cornwall, England, Aphex Twin began experimenting with electronic music in his teenage years. His early work was heavily influenced by the rave culture of the late 1980s and early 1990s, yet his approach was distinct, blending the frenetic energy of acid house with an introspective ambient sensibility. Selected Ambient Works 85-92 was the culmination of years of experimentation, capturing a period in James’s life where he was deeply immersed in both the underground rave scene and his own personal sonic explorations.
The album was initially released on Apollo Records, a subsidiary of the influential Belgian label R&S Records, and quickly garnered critical acclaim. Tracks like “Xtal” and “Tha” showcased James’s ability to craft immersive atmospheres, blending lush, melodic textures with subtle, driving rhythms. The album’s influence extended beyond the confines of ambient music, touching on elements of techno, acid house, and even the burgeoning IDM (Intelligent Dance Music) movement, which included artists like Autechre and The Orb.
Despite its age, Selected Ambient Works 85-92 continues to be a touchstone for electronic musicians and fans alike. Its reissue offers a chance to experience the album in its full analog glory, reminding us of Aphex Twin’s pivotal role in shaping the sound of modern electronic music. Comparable to the groundbreaking work of artists like Brian Eno and Kraftwerk, this album remains a testament to Richard D. James’s innovative spirit and his ability to transcend the limitations of genre and technology.
