Following nearly a dozen well-received singles and EPs, Detroit techno producer Manuel Gonzales (
MGUN) released his debut full-length
Gentium on British label Don't Be Afraid. The album contains tracks recorded at Gonzales' childhood home between 2007-2010 in addition to newer material. While there's a slight increase in fidelity for some of the tracks, they generally sound like they could've been made at any point since the late '80s. For the most part, Gonzales records his music in one take with no multi-tracking, and he limits himself to analog equipment, sometimes including keyboards he's had for ages. Thus, there's a hefty amount of tape hiss and distortion, giving his music a gritty edge. The release has its dark, murky moments, particularly on its second half, which includes abstract electro tracks like "NVR" and "Nobs." The album's first half is a bit more sunny and pleasant. His tracks are never outright joyous or anthemic, but the shimmering tones of opener "Pok" and the bright keyboard melodies of "Half Past 3" seem relaxed and comfortable. "Bed & Breakfast," which has a swinging garage beat swimming in dubby echo, is definitely the album's most ecstatic moment.
MGUN's tracks aren't flashy or incredibly sophisticated, but it never feels like he's taking a few ideas and stretching them thin. While there are self-imposed limitations to the tracks, they still seem creative and spirited. The album doesn't have any pretensions about being anything other than a collection of techno tracks recorded at home studios in Detroit, and it's all the better for it. ~ Paul Simpson