Bleep

Almost two decades on from the howling glitches of its first instalment, Alva Noto’s seminal Xerrox pentalogy comes to an end. Its conceptual methodology of copying samples and simulacra has resulted in a sublime unity of sound and science, with the final fifth volume focussing on original melodies swelling in orchestral harmonics. Many tracks carry a solemn aura, with chirping glitches breaking the smooth stygian gloss of strings, or wavering choral tones beneath whispering twinkles of melody and rhythmic micro stabs. The burning embers and spitting electricity of ‘Xerrox Xenonym’ amplify these feelings with its minimalist emotionally effective composition.