Return to Square One

What is it to be a fan of Squarepusher? As many a hopeless devotee could attest, it has meant to expect the unexpected, hope for those occasional moments of avant brilliance (Hard Normal Daddy, Big Loada), though too often having to forgive, forget, and hope for redemption with the following release. However, like any dysfunctional relationship, it does occasionally provide some beautiful moments that keep the abused from moving on. While not reaching the euphoric heights of 2004’s Ultravisitor, Tom Jenkinson a.k.a. Squarepusher is once again treating his loyal fans how they deserve with his latest, Hello Everything. For fans of masterful IDM/electronica programming, virtuoso-caliber melodic chops, and general acoustic schizophrenia, Hello Everything finds a playfully upbeat Jenkinson at the keys, frets, skins, and, uh, squares in full form. Keeping the trip adventurous and unpredictable, delicately plucked intermezzos contend with metallic sound experiments, acid jazzy grooves, and 8-bit spasmodic symphonies straight from the bonus round. Like his fans, perhaps he himself has been somewhat nostalgic of the early-era jazzy freestyle d’n’b Squarepusher with “Planetarium,” as well as the pH level 1 “Plotonius.” There really is a bit of everything Squarepusher here. While lacking in legendary compositions on par with “Port Rhombus,” “Beep Street” and similar statement tracks that inspired a new generation of producers, it is nonetheless $16 wisely spent on what is an eclectically satisfying effort from one of IDM’s most talented auteurs.

The Warp label—home to Squarepusher, Aphex Twin, and many other wayward sequencers—has never set out to appease the popular palette. However, like the first kid to defiantly wear a tie with a ripped t-shirt who is copied schoolwide the following week, Warp has ultimately played the biggest influence in the popular development and influence of IDM/Glitch, whether the label wanted to or not. Squarepusher’s Jenkinson was one of these kids, and Hello Everything is proof enough that the old dogs can still lead the pack.