MACHINEDRUM Vinyl & CDs

Review: Excellent, blindingly techy new offering from Machinedrum & Holly. The pair channel glossy, post-internet trap, early 00s Coki-esque dubstep skwelch and all the best parts of contemporary d&b. 'VSN 122' comes with all the rushy euphoria of the best pop-adjacent, accessible dance music records, but maintains its edge with shards of unorthodox sound design and texture- take the wild bowed cymbal-sounding wubs in 'Novaform' or the unhinged FM action and distant vocal hollering on 'Luminae' for instance. Over the course of a mere six tracks, Machinedrum & Holly weave a complex tapestry of club affect, from the languid spa-hop of 'Blueshift' to the overtly poppy rush of 'Hide Sun'. Forward!

Review: Travis Stewart, better known by his stage name Machine Drum, is an American electronic music producer who has been pushing the boundaries of drum and bass for over two decades now. Stewart's unique approach to rhythm and sound design has earned him a cult following among discerning music enthusiasts. Machine Drum's latest album, 3for82, is a testament to his minimalist aesthetic. Released on the respected Ninja Tune label, the album marks Stewart's return after a four-year hiatus. 3for82 showcases Machine Drum's signature blend of intricate drum patterns, atmospheric textures, and sparse melodies. The album features an eclectic mix of vocal artists, each contributing their own unique flavor to Stewart's sonic tapestry. From the catchy vocals of Tinashe on 'Zoom' to the slick style of rapper Deem Spencer on 'blessed', 3for82 is a testament to Stewart's collaborative spirit. Stewart's attention to detail is clear in every layer of the album, from the subtle shifts in rhythm to the evocative sound design. The result is a hypnotic and immersive experience that energizes the listener to an album full of memorable music. With 3for82, Machine Drum once again proves himself to be a master of his craft.