Synthesizer And Percussion

_„ñThis record features the many distinctive sounds of the ARP Synthesizer plus percussion in various moods and tempos_„ is the even more underwhelming than usual library record sales pitch for Alan Hawkshaw and Brian Bennett_„Žs second collection of what is basically minimal G-funk, with overtones of primitive acid house. This is ridiculously good.

This is one of Hawkshaw and Bennett_„Žs wilder joints and aeons ahead of its time. Bennett_„Žs tough drums provide the underpinnings for the prominent bass, keys and bubbling synths high up in the mix, alongside Hawkshaw_„Žs deranged clavinet-funk-rock. There are heavenly break loops galore.

Opener "Mon Amour" is ultra-smooth funk, all inter-weaving melodic lines whilst the seminal "Oddball" is an incredible hard electro strut with a knocking break. "Mile High Swinger" is a tranquil Spaghetti Western whistling theme over double tempo rhythmic movement and the pulsating "Auto Pilot" has a percussive groove elevated by electric piano and synthesizer. Check "Driving Force_„, _„ñHome Run_„ and "Pacesetter" for electroid prog-funk dripped in acid squelch.

All five final tracks are beatless synth workouts, because they can.

As with all ten re-issues, the audio for Synthesizer and Percussion comes from the original analogue tapes and has been remastered for vinyl by Be With regular Simon Francis. We_„Žve taken the same care with the sleeves, handing the reproduction duties over to Richard Robinson, the current custodian of KPM_„Žs brand identity.

And don_„Žt worry! Those KPM stickers aren_„Žt stuck directly on the sleeves!