Octave One return with a new album entitled ‘Love by Machine’, its name is a nod to the fact that the Burden brothers are apparently ‘revered masters of
their hardware’ - both in the studio and also in the live arena. All the more impressive when you bear in mind they have been active since the ‘80s, most often releasing on their own 430 West
label, which is where they appear again here.
Lenny: “We’ve been exploring the theme of connection with this project. How technology gives us the illusion that we are closer to each other more than ever. At some point humanity crossed a line where the devices that we created to bring us together are the same devices that are blocking us from organic experiences.”
“Technology is only a tool, which we also had in mind during the recording process,” adds Lawrence. “We decided to go back to how we used to make our records, when we didn’t have so many ‘sophisticated’ audio devices. Back to when we interacted in the studio together as musicians.”
Things open up with the loose metallic percussive line that is ‘In Mono’, which sets the machine made tone and is filled with promise. ‘Locator’ then immediately gets to action with a gallivanting techno kick and various synth lines wrapping round each other. ‘Just Don’t Speak (Midnight Sun Redub)’ is a more deep and house leaning track with big piano keys and synths. Showing range, ‘7 B4 Dawn’ is a moody and reserved cut with subtle acid pricks, hip swinging claps and a spaced out dead of night feel.
The second half of the album offers ‘Bad Love II’, ‘Sounds Of Jericho’ and the big loops and ‘[Where] Time Collides’. ‘Pain Pressure’ is a wonky number with big bassline and a focus on percussive patterns as well as some vocals and last cut ‘8 B4 Dawn’ ends things in a downbeat and sombre way with sad chords and emotive strings.
It’s out 25 November on 430 West Records.
© justaweemusicblog.com
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