Among the many “Best of Albums”, the Supreme Balloon album by Matmos was not voted by critics. I am not a real critic, but as a hardcore music consumer, I would have added Supreme Balloon to my list (under ‘electronica’). The Civil War LP was originally my favorite album, but Matmos have persuaded me to think otherwise by releasing a more accessible album. That’s not to say that the experimental sounds aren’t there. The glitchy bit-crush and knob-twiddling extravaganzas we’ve grown to love is still apparent. The major difference for me, is that melody seems to be a key element this time. They used a varying list of vintage instruments: Arp, Korg, Roland, Waldorf, Moog, Electro-Comp, Doepfer, Akai, Suzuki Omnichord, Coupigny, EVI/Electronic Voice Instrument. Guest performers include Jay Lesser, Jon Leidecker (aka Wobbly), Marshall Allen of the Sun Ra Arkestra, concert pianist Sarah Cahil, and Keith Fullerton Whitman. Note: the vinyl release included three bonus tracks. "Hashish Master" features a solo synth improvisation from minimalist Terry Riley. Keep vinyl alive folks!

The lead song, “Rainbow Flag” moves with such comic and delight, that I swear I hear Danny Elfman. “Les Folies Françaises” sounds more like a Wendy Carlos-Matmos collaboration. The title song, Supreme Balloon floats around 24 minutes of manipulated synths and quirky rhythms. Mister Mouth would please IDM kids or any fan of Mr. Ozio or Maurice Fulton.

* Extra Bit: Current 93’s EP, “Black Ships Heat the Dancefloor” was remixed by Matmos and released back in June 08’. Check “The Beautiful Dancing Dust” remix.