In presenting their first full-length release, quirky rhythm mashers Battles have done their unique, cavorting style a great disservice.
Mirrored presents eleven new tracks of neck-breaking beats from John Stanier, melodic, mathy riffs from guitarists Ian Williams and Dave Konopka, and buzzing electronics from loop master Tyondai Braxton. The problem, however, is that Braxton sprinkles painful, manipulated vocals at various points on the album. The end result is extremely disappointing given how talented these four individuals are.
Preexisting fans need to search no further than “Atlas,” the group’s first single off Mirrored, to be let down. The straightforward tune begins to build into something danceable, but Braxton’s quizzical effects make it sound more like a munchkin parade. Worsening the Chipmunks-esque situation, on both “Atlas” and other selections, is that Braxton’s melodies can be downright grating.
Tracks like “Race:In,” the album’s inauguration, are capable of overcoming the vocal offerings. The tune kicks off in typical Battles fashion, layering harmonies on top of an introductory rhythm and a repetitious, palm-muted guitar part. Though high-pitched, whistled squeals and lyric-less “hum-hums” and “woos” threaten to disrupt the flow, a rapidly up-scaling riff and series of down-walking bleeps refocus the piece before a well-placed breakdown.
But Braxton is the album’s downfall. Williams’ first idea of vocals for Battles was to incorporate a phalanx of screaming girls. Instead, the band settled for Plan B.
– Scott Morrow
Battles (Warp Records)