Crush is like the Floating Points record Ive always wanted. While I enjoyed the tender classical minimalism of Elaenia as much as the next NPR program director, Crush is Sam Shepherd doing what he does best; rolling out functional, immaculately-crafted tracks for the dancefloor that tickle the synapses, delivering on the promise of early singles Vacuum Boogie, Peoples Potential and J&W Beat in long form. The best tunes here hit you squarely in the chest but are still as *intelligent* as youd expect from a guy with a PhD in neuroscience. Last Bloom is microtonal electro reminiscent of some of RDJs more dancefloor-tuned fare; Anasickmodular is swinging breaks-fueled ruffage, tuff as any Ice Cream Records classic with atmosphere for days. Early preview single LesAlpx is back in slightly abridged form (get the extended mix here) as the albums centerpiece, a cunning slice of dark house that seems like it would go off just as hard at Berghain as it would at EDC or even your local bar gig. Bias is a slinky roller draped in brooding synth cascades and a hefty swinging rhythm indebted to vintage 2-step (a nod to Zed Bias, innit). This is the Floating Points record for the punters, but theres enough Buchla synth meditations (Karakul, Birth, Sea-Watch) and mutant orchestral twissups (Falaise, Requiem for CS70 and Strings) to appease the chin strokers. Indie exclusive variant contains alternate cover with full color artwork printed inside and out, 4-page booklet with the musical score for Birth and code for digital download. Recommended.

• black vinyl pressing
• indie exclusive version w/ alternate artwork
• includes 4 page booklet
• digital download included
• limited edition
• music label: Ninja Tune 2019

reviewed by laughable butane bob 08/2019