2CD – Mego
Compositions recorded between 1997 and 1999, often in different studios and cities (New York, Osaka, Tokyo, Toronto and Malmö), and originally published on Mego in 2001 constitute this fascinating project by Jim O’Rourke. This record effectively condenses the eclectic electronic music typical of the famous American experimenter, creating a particularly compelling reprint; now even more appealing because of the inclusion of extra footage dating back to the same period. These tracks are still inspired, restless but charming. This is authentic contemporary music, but is nevertheless quite difficult to enjoy easily. There are three long suites on both discs. The second CD is even more cut than the first; assonant and suspended in a different manner, yet vibrating with the same intersections. This is a sound substance diluted and enlivened by flying schizoid pop shards, cracked minimalism, environmental scores and laptop evocations (though O’Rourke prefers the word “computer”, a more precise definition when applied to the instrument used for these creations). The new artwork is also very pleasant, elegant and joyously abstract, of a sparkling and slightly acidic light green color.