Menche's "Creatures of Cadence" is a subtle affair that seeps into space and grows an environment around itself. The four long tracks seem like movements of a drama that could be unfolding on microscopic, cellular levels. Each track has its own distinct organic feel brought about by a few very slowly evolving loops of drones, stuttering electronic pulses, and occasional drums. The loops grow and change very patiently, interacting with drawn out conversations, or sustained frenzy. Despite the disc's occasional harshness and tendency for frantic activity, I never feel like I'm being provoked or attacked by by Menche. Instead, it seems like I am being issued an open invitation to experience this world more deeply. Menche is obviously a mature sound manipulator. He works with a limited pallette of textures and pushes these as far as they can go, rather than imploring a variety of sounds without much forethought. This maturity sometimes can lead "Creatures of Cadence" to feel a little stagnant at times however, and a slight touch of imperfection could have added another level of personality to the recordings. Overall though, the disc has a wonderful sense of presence and also a weird feeling of ritual that seems to sneak into the mix. Highly recommended for late night wanderings and explorations. 9/10 --
Charles Franklin (15 May, 2007)
