Twerking Class Heroes - Crevassa

2 Nov

The Twerking Class Heroes appeared on my radar after the last release, Corallium (2023). Both Corallium and this new record Crevassa (2023) seem to be part of a so-far three-release series, along with Bark Scale (2023), by the Swiss duo on the Oro Negro imprint. They also share similar artwork along with a similar sound. Psychedelic electronics, combined with severe percussive heat, are the recipe the Twerking Class Heroes use to make their mark on the electronic music landscape. Each of their productions is approached with a freedom that leads to a form of highly accessible brain dance. What's unique about Gabriel Meisel and Till Zehnder is that they imbue each record with joy and a sense of fun. For example, the hook of 'Zinal' is like the dance of a snake dazzled by the song of its charmer. It's body oscillating like liquid, as smooth as smoke. It unfurls from pacy drums and a touch of acidic grit. Yet the second track, 'Zmutt', becomes a caricature of a murder mystery soundtrack. Extended 808s growl as they're elongated over the track's opening before the second act introduces a quizzical melody. The melody skulks, not resolving, just pondering the croaky 2-stepping rhythms. Twerking Class Heroes actively pursue outlandish sonic choices within their productions, and it's such a refreshing take on electronic music.

That isn't to say the duo are, in any way, relying on gimmicks, far from it, as 'Allalin' demonstrates. The more ambient outing sees Twerking Class Heroes take on garage influences, delving into, dare I say, future garage. Distant cries and dubbed-out atmospheres flood into every corner of the track. Echoing acid licks resonance as we hit the climax. Switching pace to something reminiscent of Speed garage or a distinctive take on UK bassline, swampy but driven. Rounding out the record, the unconventional production techniques come to a head on the track, 'Gauli'. The stripped-back nature of the cut leaves room for all the eccentricities to reach their logical conclusion. Minimal melody through rhythmic bass. Alien sound design. Cavernous atmospherics. This is one with love for the weirdos and the geeks.

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