- You can't predict what you'll get with a Shards record, and the producer certainly wields the unknown to his advantage. His aloof mystique is one thing, but the real crux of the matter here is misdirection: Shards is great at leading us down one path and then explosively changing direction a minute later. It provided the standout moment on last year's 003 and makes for an unbeatable opening assault on 004.
"A1" slowly materializes, with simple kicks and gong hits setting a languorous pace. Then pow, it detonates, shooting out rivulets of noise and crunchy things in all directions. It balls up and evolves into a thorny creature that mumbles digital gibberish. The return of the gong brings it somewhat back in line, before it liquefies and evaporates completely.
After that, you might want something to hold onto, which thankfully the rest of the EP delivers. With its vocal call to arms, "A2" is a formidable dash to the floor that features a much welcomed melody. Keys dart about like minnows on "B1." There's also percolating lightness to be found in "B2," despite it being a stony-faced affair. On the whole, 004 isn't so outlandish as 003, but it's still subversive enough to make a hefty dent in any utilitarian DJ set.
TracklistA1 Untitled
A2 Untitled
B1 Untitled
B2 Untitled