In what is essentially the solo debut of Plasmatic Brain Spasm guitarist Ryan Branstner, "2NoHo" showcases Branstner's stunning production ability.
Manipulating all sorts of drum, key, guitar sounds and samples, Branstner layered and edited an improv sesh between him and PBS bassist Shawn Bachinski into gem of a debut full-length. A record with moments of tough biting rock experimentalism, funk, R&B, jungle, dub and chilled electronica.
You'd think experimentalism and laid back electronic music would be diametrically opposed, but come to think of it, there are a number of artists who've perfected the synthesis. Herbert and Boards of Canada both come to mind, but 2NoHo is a much different thing. The tone on the electric guitar certainly has something to do with it, so does the Plasmatic Brain Spasm style electro-funk thrown in the mix. And while both Herbert and Boards of Canada favor a more house-oriented production sensibility, 2NoHo seems more anchored to dub. Sure, there's a sprinkle of "Maggot Brain" here and a pinch of "Superstition" there (listen to track 14), but the bass grooves and the soaked drums are pretty consistently dub throughout. CMJ
www.myspace.com/2noho |
