Feelings 2

Feelings 2

Baby Oliver [Environ]

12 February, 2008 | 9.05PM

• Section: Music Recommendations
• Written by: Richard Brophy

Baby Oliver is a mystery.

Responsible for two releases on Environ, with the debut already appearing on James Murphy’s recent Fabric mix CD, discussion is rife on the internet that it’s an alias for one or both members of Metro Area.

Does it really matter?

Techno music has always benefited from enjoying a sense of mystery, so let’s not participate in a guessing game, even if the speculation is informed.

What’s most important, as always, is the music and Baby Oliver doesn’t disappoint.

‘Shot Caller’ will come as a surprise, as it’s based on the steely, shuffling 808s of Motor City electro rather than a disco groove, and the chopped up vocal about “who calls the shots” only serves to darken the mood.

‘Feelings 2’ is more in keeping with the previous release, as a 1980s pop vocal declares “I have feelings too” flutters over a sparse yet robust acidic rhythm, populated only by tight claps and a woozy analogue synth.

Although it has a starkly futuristic feeling, there is also a strong connection to the history of the disco-techno-house-electro continuum.

Rather than wondering about his or her identity, whoever is making this music should be commended for being so inventive.

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