Aphex Twin: Cheetah Cassette (Limited Edition)

Another facetofAphex Twin’s genius revealed.Ever since Richard D. James‘ triumphant returnfrom his extended hiatus, he has showcased themany sides ofhis genius throughseveral releases.Orphaned Deejay Salek went full on acid,Computer Controlled Acoustic Instruments wascompletely experimental, andSyro went big tobring it alltogether. Now with Cheetah, the prolific UK producer slows the tempo to focus on rich synth textures and beat-centric electronics. From the title we can assume RDJ is probably using a Cheetah synthesizer (probablyan MS800), an obscure British-made unit that utilizes wavetable synthesis. Not going to get into all the geeky details, but this is the kind of stuff that proves Aphex Twin is a master of his craft. Listen to the mutating sounds onthe chugging “CheetahT2 (Ld Spectrum)” and “Cheetah7tb,” then zone on the mini-ambient pieces “Cheeta1b ms800” and “Cheeta2 ms800.” Also check the”Cirklon” tracks on the B-side bring some welcomeAFX-style drum programming into the mix. Limited edition cassette version with bonus track “2X202-ST5.”Recommended.

• cassette version limited to 2000 copies
• white printed cassette in transparent cassette box
• card slip tube with foil block to cover
• music label: Warp 2016

reviewed by Milk Man 07/2016