Kyron x Griddle actually stands for Kyron's (JC Mendizabal) remixes of the progressive and psychedelic rock band Griddle. But, the surprising fact is that all the 17 tracks of this albums would be remixes of one song only...
“A City Made of Teeth” starts these remixes with an eclectic electronic track. It begins with an intriguing noisy gathering, introducing the rock styled core of the track, together with subtle ambient patterns.
Many sound deformations and modifications are explored and often well integrated with the original elements of the tracks, in a really coherent fashion (Sterben), while other track remain really abstract, glitchy and electronic without revealing they're remixes of a rock band (Urbis).
“Zahnestadt” is a variation on the first track's main theme with a darker and more anguishing atmosphere which can be found declined otherwise elsewhere (Dentata Maxima). Drums rhythm is well mixed with electronic sounds, till creating a very coherent ensemble. “G's Wisdom Thought” also deals with a dark atmosphere but quite weird and slightly dissonant...
“In the City's Keep” is very original. Quite raw and heavy drums together with deformed voices' samples are mixed with an intriguing rhythmic. Progressive structure makes all the rhythmic fineries, sounds' modifications and ambient synths' patterns evolving together, towards nocturnal and urban atmospheres.
A deep bass with a more minimalistic approach can be found (Morsus), although keeping catchy parts (Stadttor), plus surprising arrangements (Das Atzan).
“Beyond City Walls” features attractive harmonies, perfect for the final track.
This album succeeds in creating variety out from one track. Variations on the same themes, however, are common, not to say sometimes repetitiveness may embarrass on certain tracks or as some samples.
For sure, “City Made of Teeth”'s caracteristic is its subtelty. Apart from the numerous sound modifications, we can appreciate the quality of atmospheres and the rhythmics. The way original rock elements and new electronic elements are integrated in a coherent remix is very satisfactory, on a technical point of view.
Apart from that, it may be quite difficult to get into it: numerous and surprising elements, original arrangements, many sound effects, all being coherent together. But, this album is tough. There may be an effort needed to get into it, or be really used to such a rich and elaborated music. It goes without saying that listening to the original remixed track may offer a needed complement. The good surprise is that, in the end, this goes further than just a remix album!
Nocturnal, urban, eclectic and sophisticated.
