Rating: NNN
Though the Bug’s (aka Kevin Martin) 2008 album, London Zoo, shared many elements with that period’s dubstep explosion, it took it in a completely different direction, resulting in startlingly unique industrial dancehall. While dubstep eventually turned into the soundtrack of frat boy mosh pits, Martin’s work was too abrasive and strange for the mainstream. Six years later, his approach is even noisier and less accessible.
Angels And Devils is divided in two halves, Angels more ambient and ethereal and Devils containing the more aggro songs. But even the most ambient moments are dripping with darkness and dread. A wide range of collaborators handle the vocals, including Death Grips, Gonjasufi and Warrior Queen, but Martin’s often following their lead a little too much, resulting in a frustrating lack of consistency. The more overtly reggae moments work best, while the grime, hip-hop and pop elements distract, and feel like they belong on another album.
Top track: Mi Lost feat. Miss Red
