Not yer average EbE404 album (which, of course, could go without saying). Rather than continue to push the boundaries of industrial electronics, this set drives deep into the subconscious. Yeah, I guess I'd call it ambient, but that's not really right, either. It is very slow, atmospheric and punctuated by occasional bursts of sound. But the effect isn't exactly narcotic. It's intellectually arousing.

EbE404 Cortisol (GIVE/TAKE)

I suppose there are those who listen to abstract electronic music in order to focus their thinking, but I'm not generally able to hop on that train. This album, however, is precise in its observations, no matter how long or extended they may be. It's goddamned spooky--I keep imagining these sounds as a way-slowed-down vision of synapses firing--and at times frightening in the stark setting.

Always engaging, though, finding new ways of using silence to create more and more musical space. I never could figure out where these pieces were headed, and I was much more satisfied once I gave up and just let them wash over me.

Which is always the best recommendation with EbE404. Wipe away all expectation and just let the music infect you. This album, in particular, is perfect for that sort of total immersion. Once again, I recommend headphones and high volume. At some point you might experience a loss of sanity. Don't sweat it; just ride the wave. Sanity is overrated.

Jon Worley