You Can Be My Wave

When we were first introduced last year, I wasn't immediately head over heels for femtanyl brand of breakcore. I found the production to be a little one-dimensional, and found the excellent harsh vocals frustratingly buried in the mix. However, the sheer velocity of the breakbeats and the lean runtime made it an easy go-to when I needed something to put some pep in my step. Eventually it grew on me. On their new full-length, MAN BITES DOG,, femtanyl's foundation has been completely overhauled. Now expanded into a duo with the addition of Juno Callender, the project has found a new level of sonic depth.

The record has two distinct phases; we're first launched into seedy, digital hardcore rave territory reminiscent of The Prodigy. The distorted basslines, busy drum loops, and general aggression will instantly have you head-bashing, and get the blood pumping. Then, before the listener fatigue sets in, the second half gradually introduces brighter, more entrancing synth melodies. The album never really sinks into a lull thanks to the seamless transition not just between the album's distinct phases, but also between tracks. The album feels like an expertly assembled DJ set that immediately gets the blood pumping, and then coasts on an even-keeled high for the rest of its runtime.

Another general aspect of MAN BITES DOG that I'm enjoying are the more intentional vocals from Noelle Stockwood. Not only are they more prominent in the mix, but there's a level of granular detail in the performances and the editing that is truly staggering. I already know Stockwood can scream with the best of them, but this record also features some cleanly sung lines as well as some effortlessly cool, animated conversation. The more impressive part is how her vocals are treated. With tools and techniques like delays, stutters, pitch zips, destructive glitches, etc; no two vocal chops or glitches sound the same. The record is littered with infinitesimal vocal moments that continuously perk up your ears. It's a really cool reward for focused listeners.

Whether they're in aggressive mode, or delivering something that is more palatable, the duo pulls through with highlights in both cases. The opener BODY THE PISTOL has a fun electro-punk vibe with its linear drum beat and gnarled bass that sounds like it originates from a bass guitar. The robotic mantra on this track also serves as a fantastic hook. If you're looking for more material in the breakcore vein, then you'll definitely want to check out HELLTARGET, an imperceptibly fast, full-on assault. This track best demonstrates the improvement in the vocal mixing as Stockwood is clearly more audible and contributes greatly to the track's intensity. Although, thanks to better implementation of reverbs and delays, she comes across as a scary inter-dimensional being; as I believe was originally intended.

On the record's second act, we have MY HEAD HURTS; a comparatively more chill moment that is very appreciated. The drum groove is more measured, and notably, does not include vocals. Yet this omission isn't a detraction; instead, it allows the listener to fully immerse themselves in the track's dreamy atmosphere that's led by celestial, warbly synth melodies. I also have to give a shoutout to the following track SHOWS YOU THE WAY TO THE HIWAY. Like BODY THE PISTOL, this track also possesses some dance-punk sensibilities with its punchy, linear drum beat, and grimy bass. Except, this track blends in a bit of happy hardcore with some cutesy, starbeam synths, and a pop-punk bassline that is very melodic. There's also a unique vocal on here that is really interesting. It sounds like it is sampled from an older time the way it is muffled and radio-banded. Then again, it also sounds futuristic with some vocoded artifacts sprinkled in and the incoherent stutters.

Ultimately, MAN BITES DOG is the sound of a project finding balance. By bringing Juno Callender into the fold, femtanyl has transformed from a niche, yet promising breakcore act into a more well-rounded duo that will invite ravers of all stripes. For their first outing as a duo, I think femtanyl came through with a really strong record. I hope the duo can continue to refine their sound and boldly represent Toronto on the world stage.