Mikron return to CPU with their second album ‘Severance’. The Corcoran brothers refine their critically acclaimed sound which has evolved to be more haunting than the last release. This album is a nostalgic affair with synthetic landscapes washing over you, before propelling you into the distant future. The ambient moments draw parallels with Boards of Canada, Burial and Selected Ambient Works Vol. 2.
The next release on Zone is from electro and techno duo Mikron with a great remix from The Exaltics. The brilliantly gurgling and steely ‘Ulterior’ kicks things off with sheet metal hits, slithering bass and buffed-up synth sounds that make you jerk your body. It’s direct stuff for the dancefloor, and so is ‘Vanguard’. Though less quick and in your face than the opening track, it still has the sort of crisp groove that has real impact. A distant cosmos of howling winds and thundering rumbles add weight to the whole thing and really finishes it in style. ‘Foresight’ is even more haunting and spooky. Chilly metal pads spiral in the background, lurching drums and hits bring the groove and the mood overall is truly unsettling. It’s devastating stuff that gets completed with Clone and Shipwrec artist The Exaltics’ take on Ulterior’. The German has fun layering in Drexcyia style, ripped-up synths and crisp hits. It’s macho and post apocalyptic and is as inviting as it is austere.
Mikron’s love of melody and pattern are very much at the forefront with every track full of great hooks and rhythms. The album takes you on a journey through various sub genres all delivered with careful execution and enviable studio mastery.
The Hipodrome Of Music 