Artist: Autechre Album: Exai

Year: 2013
Duration: 0:0-1

A Deeper Look into the Album Exai by Autechre

Electronic Music has always been a genre on the boom. In the 90s, it was the genre that took over the world, thanks to bands such as The Chemical Brothers, Daft Punk, and Massive Attack, among others. Amongst these esteemed artists, there is also Autechre. The band, formed in 1987 by Rob Brown and Sean Booth, hails from Manchester, England that has earned its reputation as one of the key figures in electronic music. Today, we explore their eighth studio album, Exai, critically examining its playlist, its stylistic origins, and its most innovative elements.

The Music Genre of the Album

Exai is a double album consisting of twenty tracks that present different sonic journeys typical of the 90s electronic and techno music era. Listeners may identify some genre references, including ambient, IDM (Intelligent Dance Music), and experimental electronica. The duo's minimalist approach merges experimental sounds with an environmental vibe, creating a varied and outstanding range of music. Their admiration for ambient soundscapes is evident in their music, and with Exai, they take it to a whole new level.

The Best Songs of the Album

It is impossible to discuss Exai without mentioning some of its best tracks. Among them is the opener, Fleure, which is a song that introduces the album's futuristic soundscape. Other songs that stand out include the minimalist four-minute jam of M39 Diffain, the meditative 24-minute exploring choral and gurgling techno of irlite (get 0) and jatevee C, together with the ethereal blend of percussive textures in tac Lacora.

The Most Innovative Parts

The most remarkable characteristic of Exai is its complexity. Autechre's dedication to exploring non-linear sound structures and their advanced rhythmic complexity is evident in songs such as the fourteen-minute album closer, bladelores, which is striking in its expansive sound design. The duo's use of white noise and computer processing reflects an almost biological design, interlacing the album's tracks seamlessly. Each track has its own distinct character, yet they remain cohesive as a part of the album.

A Critique of the Album

Though the passion and dedication put in making the album are evident, it is undeniable that Exai can be a difficult listen for many. The album's abrupt and disorientating soundscapes can often be overwhelming, leading to an overall experience that is less approachable than Autechre's past outputs. The complexity and creativity of the album may also not be for everyone, and those who are more likely to enjoy ambient electronic music will likely find the album more enjoyable than others.
Though the passion and dedication put in making the album are evident, it is undeniable that Exai can be a difficult listen for many. The album's abrupt and disorientating soundscapes can often be overwhelming, leading to an overall experience that is less approachable than Autechre's past outputs. The complexity and creativity of the album may also not be for everyone, and those who are more likely to enjoy ambient electronic music will likely find the album more enjoyable than others.
To conclude, Exai is an ambitious, winding, and complex album that illustrates Autechre's striking talent for producing experimental electronic music. It is an effort that is not for the faint of heart but will reward those who are willing to take on the challenge of a double album filled with intricate soundscapes, bold rhythms, and minimal structures. If you're up for an adventure that takes you through the realms of an electronic universe, then Exai is definitely for you.