Nisennenmondai
- #N/A (On-U Sound)
LP
/ CD / DL
1
April 2016
9
/ 10
Japanese minimalist techno trio release their
new album.
Despite being little known in the mainstream, Nisennenmondai
have been building up a well-respected reputation across Europe and with fellow
musicians since 1999. The trio of Sayaka
Himeno (drums), Yuri Zaikawa (bass) and Masako Takada (guitar) have a sound
that can only be described as unique.
On the new album #N/A
(an acronym for Nisennenmondai with Adrian Sherwood) they bring us five tracks
(seven on this international edition) of high powered organic techno that can
best be described as Giorgio Moroder on acid.
Hypnotic rhythms combine with ad-hoc dub effects and intermittent noises
to create something very special indeed.
Their tracks, whilst
essentially simplistic, seem to pulse in a hugely addictive way. Much of it is repeated but somehow retains an
interest and an excitement throughout.
Sherwood’s touch is indisputable as he presides over the production and
helps create something that will not be repeated.
With fans ranging
from Battles to Chris & Cosey of Throbbing Gristle, Nisennenmondai’s recent
history has concentrated on dance culture and has given them a further exposure
and, with the release of #N/A continued recognition can only be round the
corner.
Meeting at University, the trio soon started
making music together with initial releases on their own Bijin label, albums
Neji/Tori and N’ followed in 2008 and 2014 respectively and their
space/techno/dub sound has evolved over time.
Their sound may not be for everyone, but lovers of electro and On-U will
devour the new album in their droves.
With three of the five tracks clocking in at
well over ten minutes each (#2 is a mighty sixteen), the emphasis is on
recurrence and duplication over mesmerising soundscapes for the ‘disturbed’
On-U faithful. The two bonus tracks see
Sherwood ‘live remix’ A’ and B-1’ (originally appearing on N’) at Unit Tokyo in
April of last year, where he employs some incredible dubs and echoes, adding a
huge sound to the bands already energetic live show.
Nisennenmondai could
have just released one of the surprise packages of the year – certainly ground-breaking
and definitely entertaining, their brand of post-punk dance instrumentals is
one not to be missed.
Links
On-U Sound
Nisennenmondai website
Nisennenmondai on Twitter
Nisennenmondai on Facebook
Adrian Sherwood on hiapop Blog
Published on Louder Than War 1/04/16 - here
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