With “The Forbidden EP”, Brazilian producer ^L_ (Luis Fernando) once again demonstrates his mastery in crafting music that challenges conventions and pushes the boundaries of contemporary sound. Released via Italian concept label Insane Industry Recordings, this work is a captivating and unsettling dive into IDM, industrial techno, and breakbeat territories.
The EP opens with “Making Music to End My Social Life”, a title as ironic as it is evocative. The track bursts with influences from gabber and digital hardcore, offering a brutal yet fascinating introduction that sets the tone for the entire release. Its intensity is a testament to ^L_’s sonic approach: destabilizing yet irresistibly compelling.
“Don’t Listen to This Track” follows with an immersive atmosphere that conjures the image of a relentless factory environment. Featuring samples of clanging metal bars, aggressive kicks, and acid-infused elements, this track stands out as one of the EP’s highlights. It showcases ^L_’s ability to blend experimental techniques with an enveloping industrial groove.
The peak of the EP comes with “Anyone Can Be Goth”, a track that fuses glitches, IDM beats, and ghostly textures. Inspired by the minimalist electronic style of Radiohead and the deconstructed approach of Aphex Twin, it was hailed by Berlin’s The Brvtalist as a cutting-edge masterpiece. Undoubtedly the standout track of the release, it masterfully balances chaos and beauty in a sublime way.
The EP closes with “There is No Love on Thanksgiving”, a powerful mix of drum’n’bass, breakbeat, and IDM. Glitch and acid textures intertwine to create a sense of tension and chaos, reflecting the themes of loneliness and nihilism that permeate ^L_’s work. The artist’s musical maturity shines through in his ability to balance cultural references with a unique sonic aesthetic.
One particularly intriguing aspect of the EP is the sarcastic and self-aware track titles, adding another layer of complexity to ^L_’s work. Every detail – from the composition and production to the layout designed by Das Kollektive Studio – reflects a cohesive and deliberate artistic vision.
“The Forbidden EP” is more than just a collection of tracks; it’s an experience. ^L_ confirms his status as a producer who skillfully weaves diverse influences – from Aphex Twin to Autechre, cyberpunk culture to industrial sounds – into a powerful and contemporary sonic narrative.
Buy “The Forbidden EP” here