Map 71 – Ex-Socialite Needs A New Invention

Foolproof Projects

Andy Pyne and Lisa Jayne have reconvened as Map 71 to unleash a download EP of new material from Foolproof Projects. After time spent squirrelled away in their bunker (I imagine), the bouncing repetition and simple insistence of opener “Ex-Socialite Needs A New Invention” is faintly reminiscent of some of Factory Floor‘s rhythmic experiments, but here Andy uses squalls of synthetic sound to try and put off Lisa from her surreal yet normal monologue.

Lisa’s delivery is irrepressible, and her observations and skewed visions are as curious as ever: “Animals look haunted by living”, she opines as playful drums dart and swerve around her. This doesn’t feel as harsh as the last album and the quieter tempo of “Gyrate Formidable Receptors” draws a little more emotion from Lisa’s voice. The words seem drawn from her mouth here, imbued with more meaning as each syllable is enjoyed for its shape and texture. You could dance to this, or you could choose to sit down and try to figure out Lisa’s stream of consciousness. If you choose the latter, the high pitched squeaks and tribal drum element will still be tempting you onto the dancefloor.

The final track, “Space Ghost Bridget”, has a Radiophonic feel that envelops one of Lisa’s mantras, surrounding specific and well-chosen words repeated seemingly at random. Her voice is almost gentle here and is probably the softest that I have heard it, with Andy’s backdrop like a fuzzy bed upon which the words can rest. For me, this shows a few different sides to what Map 71 can accomplish allowing, a little emotion and softness into the mix that is not unwelcome. Three tracks is all you can have though, I am afraid, so hopefully they will be back soon with something a little longer; but for now, revel in this.

-Mr Olivetti-