The First A Formal Music

Aphex Twin “Minipops 67 (Source Field Mix)”

Right around the time Syro was announced, a few fake “leaks” of the album started going around. I can’t remember what it actually was, but if you barely knew Aphex Twin, you wouldn’t really know the difference probably. It’s sort of insulting, really, the thought that an electronic record with no vocals would all basically be the same. When “Minipops 67” was released as a single, it was clear just how recognizable Aphex Twin really is – his catalog is varied, but there’s just particular tones and rhythms that are very him. Mark Richardson’s review of Syro pointed out that his approach to drum programming is every bit as distinctive as how John Bonham played the drums, and I think that’s very true. It’s an interesting thing to consider, too – a lot of what is recognizable about music played on traditional instruments is in the way the musician’s body interacts with the object. It’s a unique physicality and sensibility. With programming, I suppose, it’s more about recognizing the way someone’s mind works. That’s present in live instrumentation too, but it’s more the focus here. Even if you haven’t been lurking around Aphex Twin’s mind for some time, you immediately recognize where you are when you’re there.

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