LA-4A ‎– {Phonautograph} - Delft

Given that the 'phonautograph' referenced in the title is apparently the oldest sound recording device, it is no surprise that Kevin McHugh's debut album as L4-4A takes a lot of its influences from older times. That's not meant as a negative, and the opening tracks, "Frequenzvariabler" and "Transmitter" are eerie ambient soundscapes. McHugh keeps the focus on classic-sounding electronic music with the acid-fuelled, bass-heavy electro of "Dialup" and "Semantron" and the deep Detroit tones meet quirky rhythms of 90s UK techno on "Blitzlicht". McHugh also delves into the world of acid with the sharp drums, gurgling 303s and MCing on "Resistor". L4-4A's debut album is a long way from McHugh's previous incarnation, Ambivalent.