Agoraphobic Nosebleed

Those who weren’t fully satiated by the relentless grinding digital mayhem of Relapse’s recent two-disc compilation of Agoraphobic Nosebleed’s early material, Bestial Machinery, would do well to fasten their bib as tightly as possible — they’ll likely be coughing up drum machines and broken guitar strings after a single spin of this monster. Originally issued on six-inch vinyl, this reissue sees the entire PCP Torpedo EP packaged with the Anbrx remix album, featuring re-workings of the caustic originals by everyone from Justin K Broadrick (of Godflesh, Jesu and Final) to Japanese noise merchant Merzbow. Unfortunately, the remixes are hit or miss — some are simply irritating, repetitive attempts at power noise that grate more than they invigorate. However, fans of the group’s general tone, particularly their more recent material, will find this essential. Plus, a format of two three-inch discs? The novelty alone warrants a purchase.