Rotation 4: Fluorescent Grey

Bay Area producer Robbie Martin, better known as Fluorescent Grey, has developed a reputation as a bit of a prankster over the course of his career. He's one of the few people on this planet that can say they not only earned a permanent spot on Autechre's shit list for releasing fake music under their name along with software enabling anyone to easily imitate their music, but he also instigated a massive beheading hoax video that exploded across the world's mainstream news outlets during the height of the new Gulf War's "terrorism" scare that solidified him a slot on the FBI's shit list as well.

Since releasing his debut on Isolate Records, Robbie has released on various labels, including his latest "Antique Electronic / Synthesizer Greats 1955 - 1984 Part 1" on the Irish label Acroplane, as well as on his own imprint - Record Label Records.

On "Antique Electronic...", Fluorescent Grey collages together thousands of loops and samples from early electronic records into a rich tapestry of sounds and grooves that pay homage to the pre-rave days of electronic music while rebuilding them in a way you've never heard before.  It's an awesome record and has been in my rotation since its release last month.  Contrary to this record though, much of his work focuses more heavily on original sound designs than it does on samples.  His soundscapes range from minimal and ambient to extremely complex and mathematical and his ability to mold and manipulate electronics is second to none.

Get familiar with his back catalog, if you aren't already and stay tuned to the Rotation(s) blog because it's going to be an interesting month of insight and reflection from this talented artist!  You just might learn you somethin', dagnabbit!