Backyard Ritual Small World cassette
Solo release from Ian Campbell of POP. 1280 that pulls from post-punk, goth, and synth-pop influences to create a winning debut. Built around simple drum machine sequences, the songs grow with ENO-esque ambient textures and snaky guitar lines until you find yourself tapping your foot and reaching for the eyeliner. “RFP” begins with a moody syncopated synth bass line that opens up into a catchy, uplifting chorus. “Grasping at Straws” is the most romantic and poignant song NEW ORDER never wrote, and it’s worth the price of admission alone. For a solo recording, it sounds remarkably full and well-produced, and is recommended for fans of COLD CAVE or really any kind of post-industrial electronic pop music.