Cubic – EFM02 (Digital EP – Alfa Matrix)
Earlier this year, Cubic released the EP “EFM01”—also available on vinyl. Now, the project returns with a long-awaited album featuring seven tracks. The release includes alternative edits as well as a few additional pieces.
Cubic remains faithful to its signature ‘robotic’ music concept. Kraftwerk’s influence is omnipresent, but traces of harder EBM sounds—echoing operator Franky Deblomme’s previous project, Darkmen—also shine through. While the result may not sound particularly innovative and at times even somewhat predictable, it remains undeniably effective. There are countless Kraftwerk imitators—many of whom, I’m convinced, should never have attempted such an endeavor—but few manage to infuse genuine individuality. Cubic succeeds in doing so, not only by blending in EBM, but also by weaving in Dance and Techno elements: flat basslines reminiscent of Mr. Oizo’s global hit, and the kind of sampling typical of the ’90s. The result is a fusion of styles that ultimately forms a coherent and satisfying whole. (Rating:8).
Listen to “Binary Code – EFM02 Edit”:
https://alfamatrix.bandcamp.com/track/binary-code-efm02-edit
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