Man is Slapped - Man is Slapped

  by Adrian Huggins

published: 25 / 1 / 2009

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Review

This is the fantastic debut EP from York/Durham based one man computerized, off-the-wall indie act, Man is Slapped. I first came across him in 2007 at gig in Durham and live he is a great find, often sitting cross legged on the floor like an infant school child in an assembly, while, with a microphone and his lap top, he makes a racket that stopped everyone in their tracks. His set usually includes a fantastic version of Slayer’s ‘Reign in Blood’, which is unlike anything you could conceive. I was eager to see how this came across on record and was not disappointed. He sounds a bit more ‘normal’ than one might imagine after seeing him live and this is a great body of work that manages to stretch the imagination, while at the same time remaining easy to digest. Man is Slapped makes intriguing music that washes through you before you notice all the different sounds and noises that are crammed into it effortlessly. It is reminiscent of the likes of the Postal Service in terms of sound and also recalls some of Syd Barrett’s work with it’s wistful and playful vocal styles, particularly on ‘Unnecessary Fuss’. The ambitious ‘Running to the Airport’ has an echo of Imogen Heep style vocal play. There are subtle yet driving beats weaving through it before it breaks down into mellow parts then straight back into electro indie heaven. ‘The Crash’ is another playful and poetic song which hits the senses at so many different levels. It is littered throughout with random sounds and drum beats that come from nowhere, yet which manage to fit perfectly together. Tt is a fine example of experimental music. For what is just a one man project, this is a striking collection of songs that constantly pushes the boundaries and strays out of the conventional. This is a great debut that I really hope gets the recognition and cult following it deserves.

Track Listing:-