Making Orange Things

Making Orange Things- Album Overview

"Making Orange Things" is a collaborative album by the Canadian electronic artist Venetian Snares (Aaron Funk) and the American musician and producer, Daniel Lanois, released on September 30, 2022. Coming under the label Planet Mu, this album marks a significant departure from Funk's typical breakcore sound, blending elements of ambient, experimental, and glitch music. The recording process was noted for its avant-garde use of live instrumentation, which is a departure from Funk's usual reliance on samples and programmed beats. The collaboration with Lanois, known for his work with U2 and Bob Dylan, infuses the album with a rich sonic texture, characterized by lush soundscapes and intricate layering. The album features nine tracks, including singles like "Orange," which showcases a blend of electronic beats and organic instrumentation, creating an immersive listening experience. The title "Making Orange Things" symbolizes the fusion of their unique styles, emphasizing creativity and the transformative process of music-making. This release is significant within the electronic music landscape, as it challenges conventional genre boundaries and pushes listeners to explore deeper emotional and auditory realms. The album has been praised for its artistic ambition and the successful melding of two distinct musical visions, marking a new chapter in Funk's prolific career.

Review

"Making Orange Things" redefines Venetian Snares' artistic vision by introducing a fresh palette of sounds while retaining the complexity that fans have come to expect. The album’s production is meticulous, with each layer of sound crafted to evoke a specific emotional response. Tracks like "Orange" feature pulsating rhythms interwoven with ethereal melodies, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that captivates the listener. The interplay between Funk’s intricate programming and Lanois’s organic textures results in an engaging contrast that is both introspective and expansive. Lyrically, the album is abstract, often eschewing traditional narratives in favor of evocative imagery and emotional resonance. The lack of conventional song structures allows the artists to explore themes of transformation and creativity without constraint. This freedom results in a work that invites repeated listens, revealing new layers and nuances with each experience. Overall, "Making Orange Things" is a bold statement that showcases the evolution of Venetian Snares as an artist, pushing the boundaries of electronic music and offering listeners a glimpse into a more nuanced soundscape.

Highlights

• Innovative blend of electronic and live instrumentation
• Rich, textured soundscapes that invite deep listening
• Successful collaboration that pushes genre boundaries

Weak points

• Some listeners may find the abstract nature challenging
• Lacks the frenetic energy of earlier Venetian Snares works
• Not all tracks maintain the same level of engagement

Overall evaluation

"Making Orange Things" is a bold and inventive work that showcases Venetian Snares' ability to evolve while maintaining his signature complexity. The collaboration with Daniel Lanois adds depth and richness, making this album a noteworthy addition to the electronic genre.