tech
Boards of Canada: Inferno review
(Warp)The Scottish electronic duo remain hugely influential – but their new album’s interrogation of religion is dubious, and the drum programming is worse still
TL;DR
- Boards of Canada releases their first album in 13 years, 'Inferno'.
- The duo's signature sound, characterized by analogue synths and hip-hop beats, is present but has been overtaken by more nimble electronic contemporaries.
- The album explores themes of spiritual deliverance and damnation, sometimes in a callow manner, with questionable use of samples.
- Criticism is leveled at the dullness of much of the music, particularly the "wretchedly pedestrian" beats.
- The best tracks on 'Inferno' are beatless, focusing on ambient soundscapes and vocal samples.
- Despite its flaws, the album is considered an epic statement that diehard fans will appreciate for its signature "corrupted nostalgia."