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STIKI

(FORMERLY PIGSIX 4)

UPDATE

Stiki (formerly Pigsix 4) have issued a 6-track CD 'single', The Day the World (Almost) Ended Because of Ants. Retaining the cross-cultural eclecticism of their earlier identity, the CD ranges from the ska beat of 'Ants' through the synth-pop of 'For Me' to the Latin-rock sound of 'Dropkicked'.

Polished and upbeat, this is a pleasant and entertaining release.

Rik 27 June 1997

PIGSIX 4 is an electro-ambient group and has recently released its first CD, I Am The Chemistry.

The group consists of Matt Howden (vocals and violin), Jane Griffiths (bass guitar), and Jason White (octopad). Matt Howden, who played violin on Tony Wakeford's Cupid and Death CD, is the author of all words and music.

The CD bleeps into life with an ambient electronic piece reminiscent of mid-70s to early-80s music by Brian Eno or Vangelis. Other tracks have eastern, classical, funk-dance and synth-pop styles, suggesting traces of New Order, Japan, Orb and Roxy Music.

Tracks range, therefore, from gentle and dreamy to heavy funk. Where vocals are employed, they are not prominent but tend to blend into the music. The album also features a few samples which are used effectively.

Despite the eclectic variety of approaches and influences, the album's overall ambient feel imbues it with a coherent and distinct character of its own. Altogether a very professional sound.

Rik (with thanks to JOHN MARSHALL)
Dated: 18 August 1996. Photo by David Dunn (courtesy of The Sheffield Star) added 19 September 1997.

CONTACT DETAILS

MATT HOWDEN
http://www.matthowden.com

I Am The Chemistry was issued by Symbiose in Portugal, symbiose@individual.puug.pt