Machinefabriek – Amalgaam (Album – Zoharum)
Genre/Influences: Experimental, industrial.
Format: Digital, CD.
Background/Info: Rutger Zuydervelt set up his Machinefabriek project in 2004. Hailing from The Netherlands, this artist has released a countless number of productions featuring many collaborations. “Amalgaam” is his newest work, which has been introduced as ‘based on a series of improvisations on a very hands-on hardware setup’. He used an old tone generator, effect pedals, dictaphones, contact mics ao. The noises were originally recorded and next mixed and transformed in the studio.
Content: Machinefabriek stands for experimental music and that’s what “Amalgaam” simply stands for. You clearly can see the improvised way of working, mixing numerous noises creating a truly sonic patchwork. The album features 2 shorter cuts and 2 elaborated ones holding you in their grip for 11- and 15 minutes. Next to the experimental/industrial influence, the album also reveals a dark-ambient touch, which is hanging over the work.
Notice by the way the track “Metallic” is an older cut that was originally released on a compilation. As the cut fitted with the global approach of “Amalgaam” it has been simply re-edited.
+ + + : If you’re into experimental music and you like improvisations, Machinefabriek is for sure a project you have to get on your radar. This new work will fulfill your expectations, Rutger Zuydervelt is operating as an experienced sound architect in the genre. From self-created noises to pure electro-acoustic work, this album will especially catch your attention by its longer cuts. “Amalgaam I” and “Amalgaam II” both are efficient track and I especially like the way both cuts evolved into a crescendo.
– – – : The experimental side however remains difficult to be accessible for non initiated music freaks.
Conclusion: I often have some reservations with prolific artists, but “Amalgaam” is worthy of examination for experimental lovers.
Best songs: “Amalgaam II”, “Amalgaam I”.
Rate: (7).
Artist: www.machinefabriek.nu / www.facebook.com/Machinefabriek-105289806168145
Label: www.zoharum.com / www.facebook.com/zoharum
About Machinefabriek
Machinefabriek is the alias of Rutger Zuydervelt, a composer and producer based in Schiedam, the Netherlands. Active under the name since 2004, he works across ambient, noise, minimalism, drone and field recordings, and also composes music for film and dance performances. His catalog spans a large number of solo albums and collaborations with other artists; “Amalgaam” is his latest solo work, released on the Polish label Zoharum.
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