BNJMN - Final Network
BNJMN is an artist that seemingly doesn’t miss when it comes to this brand of dubbed-out, hypnotic, techno abstractions. The abyssal wonderer has carved out a niche in the ambient techno space pulling from elements of the deep ambient genres, dub and UK techno. BNJMN pools these musical ideas into a curious hotpot of which they dip all experimental synths, basslines and sizzling percussion. The effect of this soupy concoction of influence has catapulted BNJMN up to be one of the most recognisable and diverse voices in the deep techno scene.
The standout EP has a more dubbed-out and repetitive approach with tangible musical signifiers alongside the percussion, such as the rather dull metallic stab-like sounds that add a bounce to the piece only to almost fall away in the latter sections of the song, leaving the track at its bedrock, so to speak, droning along under a rather clubby kickdrum that only enters the fray a third-way through the runtime. BNJMN’s use of synths that seem to fizz like the surf of the sea to swell into this mesmerising peak-time dub-techno masterclass and this is done to perfection on the title track 'Final Network', which encapsulates this branch of the BNJMN ethos perfectly.
Final Network hosts some of the dreamier cuts BNJMN has released, utilising elements of measured progressive electronica by opting for slow evolutions. Exploring subtlety in this release allows BNJMN to entice listeners into the seemingly never-ending depths of the tracks. The location is hazy and feels cold, not temperature-wise but a cold emptiness, life an abstraction in the depths of the EP. The abyssal feeling captured BNJMN fleets from either cosmic emptiness or spiritual complacency, in one instant hearing the screams of lost souls like in the background of ‘Reticuli’, the hollows created by looping effects tails. ‘Neurocity’ offers contrast, using relenting bass coupled with a haunting melody atop the track to synthesise a feeling like drifting through an expanse far more significant than is comprehensible.
There is a definite nod to Mike Parker within what BNJMN puts out, and it's pretty clear to hear in 'Cloaked'. The production is one of the trippiest on the release boasting hypnotic rising elements that are a mainstay over the length of the track. BNJMN expertly peppers the motif with these shimmering gusts and angelic pads contrasted with grotesque modulated groans submerged underneath.
Tracklist:
Reticuli
Neurocity
Cloaked
Final Network
Label: Bright Sounds (2018)
BNJMN - Final Network
