Reflex - MYTHM, Matheny

The good: Producers MYTHM and Matheny have crafted something hellishly nasty, and they call it the "Reflex" EP, released on Wormhole Music. It's the kind of project that was probably inspired by — or probably even samples — the thick atmosphere of the deepest, darkest depths of hell. Or maybe it's just two producers doing a fantastic job with grimy, experimental production. But I choose to believe the former. The atmosphere is incredible, hefting mighty basslines and distorted sound design and a balls-to-the-walls terrifying experience. It's gimmicky, sure, but it's one hell of a gimmick. The production isn't even that technically masterful, but the impressive part is that this is a concept where the technical aspects of the production don't even need to be on point — in fact, it might even be better without meticulous perfection, because "Reflex" pertains to sheer grit rather than musical mastery. Still, I wouldn't be writing such a positive review if that sound design wasn't some of the best bass-focused spine-chilling jaw-dropping sound design around. It's hard to fault the ideas, even if the production isn't your cup of tea.

The bad: Some of the best bass-focused spine-chilling jaw-dropping sound design around doesn't mean much when your project is only three tracks long. Sure, there are plenty of 3 track EPs, but for this one in particular, the length feels like it drags it down a lot, because it ends the atmosphere as quickly as it starts it.