Otomo Yoshihide

Monochrome Otomo is the audio-only portion of The Multiple Otomo Project, a CD/DVD set that spans the entire range of the enigmatic turntablist's oeuvre. The 18 tracks that comprise the disc feature a dizzying array of sounds, showcasing Otomo as master of his unassuming instrument. With track titles that essentially spell out the means of creation of the sounds therein, Monochrome Otomo is nevertheless laden with surprises. "Turntable Feedback I" could be mistaken for a guitar piece, at times. The brief "Cardboard Chip Needle" sounds like the bleating of helium-filled trumpets. "Coins" is nearly two minutes of a needle riding what must be sandpaper, with a short burst of analog tones imbedded inside. As an introduction to a key player in the turntable-as-instrument scene, Monochrome Otomo doesn't disappoint. As high-quality sound art, it exceeds expectations.