Mixmaster Mike

Eye of the Cyclops is one of Mixmaster Mike’s most stellar recordings, and possibly his finest accomplishment when he released it in 2000. The lightning-fast, high-octane EP packed even more punch than his full-length, Anti-Theft Device, with more twists and turns and overall depth musically. For those that slept on the initial opportunity to hear this stunning display of wax-manipulation, there’s a second and tastier chance to hear what you’ve missed. Asphodel has re-released Mike’s effort under the name Return of the Cyclops and as a bonus treat the label has latched on bonus cuts, including his "Suprize Packidge” B-sides as well as portions of the Valuemeal 12 inch Combo Deluxe record. The later is a fury of chops and intense scratching that was only available on vinyl up until now and is also out of print. Return of the Cyclops might just be a chance for Asphodel to squeeze a bit more life out of Mixmaster Mike’s back catalogue, but it’s compiled very nicely and turns Eye of the Cyclops into a fuller release. It’s also a good opportunity for fans that tuned into Mike’s bizarre cut-up world a little bit later to get their hands on some of his more rare tracks.