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Kerridge Always Offended Never Ashamed Contort

10.03.15

A natural evolution from the thriving Berlin event series of the same name, Contort is a new label run by promoters Samuel and Hayley Kerridge, aiming to provide a fearless platform for new and old talent. And as the label’s first release, this is a solid statement of intent. Most tracks on this release are moody, half-time chuggers – those looking for an up-tempo 4/4 track for sets should take their search elsewhere. But the direction is expected, given that Kerridge has always occupied the ‘noisy techno’ space. The influence of recent work with Oake is evident, although the use of his own vocals and guitar adds a distinct, personal touch.

The title implies confrontation, and given press encounters Kerridge clearly revels in a ‘fuck you’ attitude. But hostility has long been an affectation of techno producers, though not a pre-requisite, and Kerridge wears it better than most. The words ‘grainy’ and ‘dark’ will be doubtless used in refer- ence to Always Offended Never Ashamed, and are not strictly incorrect; but elements are brought together in such an uncanny, affecting way that, as ever, Kerridge continues to furrow his own distinct nook in an increasingly saturated space. If this is what Contort has to offer, then their focus on experimental electronic music at events like Atonal festival is welcome, and we look eagerly forward to its next release.