Explorations: Xtal

Original video located here. Accessed 30th October 2014

Song title: Xtal

Artist: Aphex Twin

Year: 1992

Why I like this song:

Lately I've been listening to Aphex Twin's Selected Ambient Works 85-92.

Sometimes you surprise yourself and this is no exception: My introduction to Aphex Twin was the nightmarish Come to Daddy and it's equally freaky video. One wouldn't think it would be enough to warrant a further examination but I've heard good things about Richard James' first album so, for some reason I don't understand, I sought it out.

And I can't stop listening to it. 

Listening to this after Come to Daddy is a shock: Instead of the noisy abrasiveness, we have something more moody and expressive - indeed it should be noted that Richard James has since dismissed Come to Daddy and I can agree with him: This is loads better. 
And it certainly sounds worlds apart from the electronic music both at the time and since: No big beats just plenty of synths to create a thing of beauty. It may not have the propulsion that defines EDM but it still sounds a delight to hear.