KFJC 89.7FM
Album Review
Retarder – “Enquiries Concerning Number, Modernity and Other Interesting Subjects” – [Tourette]
Cynthia Lombard 2/16/2010 A Library, CD
Retarder is UK-based Lloyd James’ (Naevus) solo experimental project and this release, “Enquiries Concerning Number, Modernity and Other Interesting Subjects” is his 2009 debut, featuring material written and recorded between 1993 and 2008.
The album begins dramatically on the instrumental track “Dancing,” with pounding piano in conversation with some droning trombone that fades in and out, and perhaps some electronic treatment, which would appeal to fans of both modern classical and experimental sounds.
Track 2, “Turn the Light Off,” begins more peacefully with a bit of post-rock jangle, but heavy bass. Rumbling fuzzy male vocals are introduced and it turns into an upbeat, toe-tapper, interspersed with slow bass interludes.
Other pieces are more experimental, some have a vintage electronic feel, whereas others are spacy or cinematic. “Modern Evening” has a lovely dark, nearly gothy approach with a bit of strum and lyrics about a butcher shop and patisserie.
As recently heard on KFJC:
- 3 years ago, Max Level played Turn That Light Off
- 15 years ago, Mitch LeMay played Modern Evening
- 15 years ago, Mitch LeMay played Chalk Is Valuable, Keep It In Your Hand
- 15 years ago, Anubis, God of Jackals played Dead Numbers
- 15 years ago, SAL 9000 played Dead Numbers
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