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

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