Evan Mast of Ratatat's first solo album since 2001’s Parking Lot Music! It feels like it’s been forever since the last time we heard from the Ratatat boys. Mike Stroud’s been wrapped up with his other duo Kunzite and Evan Mast has been collecting production credits on Kanye West albums. Fresh off of work on Donda, Mast has released a new album of 12 subdued, yet undoubtedly Ratatat-esque instrumentals. The iconic octave-fuzz guitar, mesmerizing keyboards, and hip-hop drum programming are all still there, but the grandiosity is turned down a notch. There’s still a fair share of bangers like “Koko,” “Manila,” and “New Words” but they’re juxtaposed by the drumless, atmospheric vibes on “Anything At All.” Album closer “Actual Air” legitimately sounds like it could’ve been on Aphex Twin’s Selected Ambient Works Vol.2. E*vax’s self-titled record is a welcome addition to the Ratatat canon, showcasing a side of a Mast that’s not often seen within the duo’s work. The only thing missing is Kid Cudi’s moody humming. 

• white colored vinyl
• limited edition
• music label: Perfect Branch 2021

reviewed by SHH! 09/2021