by Ben Hogwood

What’s the story?

The incredibly prolific John Tejada returns with his 15th album – this time pruning his music down to the bare essentials.

With seven tracks clocking in at 36 minutes, this is a record that looks for economy, Tejada having undergone a rigorous quality control process to get it released. As with much of his music the outlook is instrumental, though there is a vocal guest – March Adstrum – on the central track Fight Or Flight.

What’s the music like?

Tejada consistently impresses with his ability to write huge amounts of fully satisfying techno music that – while largely machine generated – has a profoundly beating heart.

As with much of his work, four to the floor is the base on which he operates – but there are always percussive nuances and melodic lines that keep the listener’s interest high and the dancer’s feet ready to go. Starting with woozy atmospherics, the single Simulacrum soon sets down a strong 4×4 beat, bolstered with extra percussion.

Someday has a golden glint to its production, shining through the hazy white noise. The Disease has that lovely steadying quality that Tejada can bring to his music, while Fight Or Flight – with an excellent contribution from March Adstrum – has lovely warm colours and shimmering textures. Centered is a funky piece of work – and a fine one at that – but Trace Remnant is even better, bolstered by Different Mirrors as a coda.

Does it all work?

It does. Tejada has an established style with intricate workings that repays repeated listening – and the golden haze he secures here is rather beautiful.

Is it recommended?

It is. John Tejada remains on top form!

Listen

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Published post no.2,006 – Saturday 11 November 2023