Ajedi - D3L3T3
While none of his albums have ranked particularly high on my site to date, Ajedi has always been an artist I’ve been expecting great things from. This is because the artist exceeds in sound design and production, putting most breakcore producers in the underground to shame. As mentioned in previous reviews, Ajedi has suffered from the dnb traps of repetition. His latest release, D3L3T3, released on September 2, 2021, addresses these issues, and as a result soars.
The intricacies of the title track and opener, D3L3T3, are marvelous. While the vocal samples are repeated throughout, the ever-changing beats and fluent, shifting soundscapes are impeccable and consistently progressive. Engraved In Stone incorporates glitch and stoner rock in between its sections for much needed variety. Cherubim is simply incredible. Sludgy, rampant guitars are impeccably accompanied by an immaculate layout of drums. Furthermore, the acoustic drums breathe plenty of life into the mix, as they do throughout the remaining album. Swamp takes a complete left turn into an EDM direction, a la Swan’s Volcano, treating it with equal respect and innovation.
Not everything is on the same level of quality. The bells introduced towards the end of Palms carry exceptionally well into Travelers of Eternity, though the latter track is filler compared to its stronger counterparts. Another track that could be considered filler is Wolf Teeth; mostly due to its lack of progression. Ajedi should be careful not to over-bloat future releases, as the album could suffered with additional fluff. Thankfully, the remaining tracks are strong enough to carry the listener through the lows. Lastly, the album goes full metal with the closer Drive A Stake Through My Heart. The result is average, especially in contrast to the dynamic tracklisting that precedes it, though it’s a nice callback to his previous sound.
The range throughout D3l3t3 is impressive. Whereas Aujora felt one-note throughout, each track is distinguishable on D3l3t3, despite only a small handful of genres being implemented. Amon Tobin would be proud, but not upset. The work clearly borrows from its influences, though cultivates a unique and satisfying personality of its own. The production is mesmerizing; consistently loud and faultlessly mixed. Additionally, the songwriting is incredibly strong on D3L3T3, though sonically it’s very similar to the artist’s previous catalogue. Here’s hoping he expands his aural range on the next album and attempts something sonically different. Until then, enjoy his latest release – it comes with a high recommendation.
Great
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