Zex Model - First Mutation
Paul Von Aphid has been hard at work with his Zex Model project. Last year, 'First Mutation' was our introduction to the twisted, dark and visceral world that is Zex Model's music. The original digital only version grabbed our attention with its raw and merciless onslaught of weird sounds and Skinny Puppy textures. Soon after some compilation appearances on Mythical tapes, Desire released the limited edition vinyl LP 'Mind Slaughter'. This created a logical follow-up release to the LP. We can now get 'First Mutation' limited edition of 300 on red vinyl from Desire Records.
This updated version of 'First Mutation' pummels us with the same intensity as the original self-released version did a little over a year ago. The tweaked mastering by A.P. helps enhance all the insanity that Mr. Von Aphid sprinkled into his masterpieces. The entire 12" is more or less the equivalent of hearing a knock at the front door, and when you open the door, a complete stranger without saying a word unleashes a devastating haymaker right into your face. All the sounds and sights you see at the moment of impact captures what is happening in every track on 'First Mutation'.
"Zex Model (Mutation)" to "Dominate DNA" to "Grind The Grey Hell", each track slams you with influences from Skinnny Puppy, Ministry, S.P.K. and even some from Japanese Anarcho-punk legends G.I.S.M. "Kreation" is a sound collage that takes us back to the earlier works of Skinny Puppy. Tracks like "Love", "Dead Doll" and "Church" come to mind. "Run To The Void" also dives deeper into the atmospheric chilling pieces of early Skinny Puppy. All the creepy feelings of horror and uncertainty fill these tracks as they delightfully plague you with their cacophony of sonic toxins. In addition to the five original remastered tracks, you get two bonus tracks that were not previously released. "Dreamtime (Live Bootleg)" is laced with all the samples and sounds you would expect from a Zex Model track. "Motormouth (Live Bootleg)" sedates you with its repetitive churning and frigid feelings of ritualistic seclusion. Neither track sounds live. Both deliver a nice punch to round out this document of the earliest works of Zex Model.
Zex Model's ever evolving sound is a treat for every listener. Get it!!!!! Oct 10 2014
This updated version of 'First Mutation' pummels us with the same intensity as the original self-released version did a little over a year ago. The tweaked mastering by A.P. helps enhance all the insanity that Mr. Von Aphid sprinkled into his masterpieces. The entire 12" is more or less the equivalent of hearing a knock at the front door, and when you open the door, a complete stranger without saying a word unleashes a devastating haymaker right into your face. All the sounds and sights you see at the moment of impact captures what is happening in every track on 'First Mutation'.
"Zex Model (Mutation)" to "Dominate DNA" to "Grind The Grey Hell", each track slams you with influences from Skinnny Puppy, Ministry, S.P.K. and even some from Japanese Anarcho-punk legends G.I.S.M. "Kreation" is a sound collage that takes us back to the earlier works of Skinny Puppy. Tracks like "Love", "Dead Doll" and "Church" come to mind. "Run To The Void" also dives deeper into the atmospheric chilling pieces of early Skinny Puppy. All the creepy feelings of horror and uncertainty fill these tracks as they delightfully plague you with their cacophony of sonic toxins. In addition to the five original remastered tracks, you get two bonus tracks that were not previously released. "Dreamtime (Live Bootleg)" is laced with all the samples and sounds you would expect from a Zex Model track. "Motormouth (Live Bootleg)" sedates you with its repetitive churning and frigid feelings of ritualistic seclusion. Neither track sounds live. Both deliver a nice punch to round out this document of the earliest works of Zex Model.
Zex Model's ever evolving sound is a treat for every listener. Get it!!!!! Oct 10 2014
Luke Jacobs
info@brutalresonance.comPart time contributor since 2012 with over 150 contributions with reviews, interviews and news articles.
Share this review
Facebook
Twitter
Google+
Shares
Buy this release
Desire Records
Autoclav1.1 & Tony Young - Makeshift.splint is available at POPONAUT from 12,95€
Related articles
Skinny Puppy - 'HanDover'
Review, Oct 05 2011
Zex Model
Interview, Jan 06 2014
Skinny Puppy - 'Weapon'
Review, Jun 07 2013
Skinny Puppy - 'The Greater Wrong of the Right'
Review, Jan 01 2004
Skinny Puppy
Interview, Jan 01 2004