REVIEW: I:Cube

Dino! (de_prenc@postoffice.utas.edu.au)
Mon, 3 Jun 1996 12:17:04 +1000


And now the grand finale:

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I:Cube
Disco Cubizm/Listen 2 the Bass
(Versatile)

The first release off France's Versatile Records, established by NOVA
radio's Gilb'R, I:Cube's premier single is apparently receiving a warm
welcome in underground circles throughout Paris. Having featured on
several prominent "play-lists" it was a single that warranted
investigation.

How fortunate for me! I:Cube does indeed deliver the goods, the tunes
bringing a smile to the face. Kicking off with a little bit of French
speech (over some cheesy tune that sounds to me like it could be the French
equivalent of "Play School"), "Disco Cubizm" soon enters the scene. The
fast bass line defines this as a techno track. Definitely a good one for
the dance-floor, maybe better characterised as "house". A great little
riff belts along, driving the song ever forward. You're bobbing your head
and tapping your feet without even realising it. A good sign!

Next up (after a little more French speech,) we have "Listen 2 the Bass".
A harpsichord and laughter introduce this track, which has a slightly
different sound to "Disco Cubizm". I would hesitate to describe this one
as techno, although it is still upbeat. "Listen 2 the Bass" is another
tune that dance-floor DJs would be happy to get their hands on. It's best
described as a hip-hop instrumental, although the beat running along
underneath is sped up to such a degree that the track is heading in the
direction of "break-beat".

The Daft Punk (by Daphunkateerz,) mix of "Disco Cubizm" is essentially the
same as the original mix, utilising the same central riff. A few original
sounds are featured that aid in making it a little more distinct from it's
namesake. All up it's a great remix, but I'd still prefer the original.

This is definitely a dope single with enough appeal, I would say, to be
readily adopted by those who stand on either side of the "techno/hip-hop
instrumental" fence. Those who sit on this fence (so to speak), should be
pleased no end with what they find! Looking forward to more stuff from
this label.
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And that wraps up today's presentation.
Dino!