Chez De Milo - Et Al
For a while now, Chez de Milo has been churning that secret sauce, cultivating a scene on his own in Bristol, one of the music capitals of the UK. Chez de Milo has been cooking and is now finding recognition in other parts of the world through steller sets and belting releases. Et Al (2024) is the new outing by Chez De Milo and is perfectly situated on the widely renowned sub-label [Emotional] Especial imprints.
Chez blends elements of electronic music's past with contemporary psychedelia. Each track drives with characterful drum loops of syncopated patterns and visceral indie rock samples. It integrates Krautrock's sensibilities and a more popular style, with 'Kremer' at home on a label like Malka Tuti. Its slower tempo, eastern influences and relentless chugging are wrapped up in a constantly progressing groove. Meanwhile, 'Gieser' follows suit only with more funk. The bass of 'Geiser' is gritty and rugged, leaving plenty of room for minimalistic stabs of atmosphere.
This kind of new stylised dance music takes inspiration from bands like NEU!, Amon Düül II and CAN minus their guitar tones. Artists build tracks with drum grooves, a reliance on sub-bass and experimental electronics, as heard on 'Thus One' that uses a garage groove, mutating bass and vocal snippets to hone in on that hallucinogenic energy. The galloping basslines add a dance floor presence on 'Et Al'. At the same time, long, drawn-out electronic sequences punctuate with psychedelic otherworldliness. This is echoed in the title track with 'Et Al' as haunting vocals tell convoluted stories, messing with your perception of time. Bass chugs and synths whirl as this effort here screams ALFOS (A Love From Outer Space) to me.
After seeing the live performance at Nottingham's Electroground (Special thanks to James Tristan) and with the release of this latest EP, Chez De Milo is becoming the total package. Superb song selection, a natural ear for production, not to mention a dab hand when it comes to putting on a party. You'll be seeing a lot more of Chez in the coming years, and I, for one, can't wait.
Tracklist:
Et Al
Gieser
Kremer
Thus One
Label: [Emotional] Especial (2024)
Chez De Milo - Et Al