Matmos’ ‘Supreme Balloon’ may be its supreme CD
By Susan Pugh on May. 15, 2008
For those who follow electronic music, Matmos is no stranger. For those who aren’t in the know, Matmos is comprised chiefly of M.C. Schmidt and Drew Daniel. Other artists have contributed both on record and on stage, but the core of Matmos revolves around the duo. More interestingly, simply because it may have a profound effect on the music, is the fact that the two have been linked romantically. Daniel also happens to be an assistant professor at Johns Hopkins University and writes for Pitchfork Media. In addition, the group has worked extensively with artist Björk.
The duo’s latest release is entitled “Supreme Balloon” and features nine completely electronic tracks — no microphones were used. While most of the songs are typical of what could be considered an acceptable length for a pop song, the title track is more than 24 minutes long. It is one of the best cuts on the record. However, “Polychords” and “Exciter Lamp and the Variable Band” could be considered the singles of the album.
“Supreme Balloon” may very well be Matmos’ best record to date. Matmos generally allowed themselves to use recorded sounds only and within this new boundary they set for themselves (of not using microphones) they have created something marvelous. It is both vintage electronica at its finest and one of the freshest works of electronic music ever released. It will be difficult to top on the next go round. For more information check out http://www.brainwashed.com/matmos/.
— Michael Chagnon, The Burg
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