- The title "Antifunk" seems like sly self-deprecation, referencing the rigid tunnel vision of contemporary techno of producers like Perc. Ironically, "Antifunk" is actually one of the loosest tracks I've heard from the London producer—but of course it's all relative. This is still heavy, industrial-strength stuff. The kick threatens to slip off the rails, the violent and punishing chords tear audible holes into the track's fabric, and the hats are reduced to slurred bolts of jagged electricity. The whole thing can barely contain itself, and the feeling of freewheeling abandon is thrilling in the context of a style that usually sounds like it's methodically plowing through subterranean passages. Unfortunately, "Antifunk" could also easily be the work of several other like-minded producers. In fact, it's all very Surgeon, especially the pockets of sumptuous reverb that periodically bubble up; and while it's a good impression, it feels derivative nonetheless.
It's "Purple" that elevates the release, skidding dangerously as a lovably frantic cowbell saturates every iota of empty space between the kicks. The unexpected breakdown drops the bottom out for tense panting and horror-film pads, and the sudden interjection of human sounds into Perc's factory-powered beats is initially jarring. Of course, it's paranoid and soaked with perspiration—in other words, it fits right in. One thing's for sure: Perc's unfailingly high production values make up for the occasionally impersonal functionalism.
Tracklist A Antifunk
B Purple