SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: SQUAREPUSHER – ULTRAVISITOR (20th ANNIVERSARY EDITION)

SQUAREPUSHER (20th ANNIVERSARY EDITION)
ULTRAVISITOR
WARP RECORDS

Squarepusher’s Ultravisitor, released in 2004, remains one of his most beloved records. Blending live instrumentation with studio precision offers a distinctive and experimental sonic journey. Now, for its 20th anniversary, Warp Records presents a remastered deluxe edition, giving fans a chance to rediscover this groundbreaking work.

Ultravisitor was ahead of its time, fusing frenetic breakbeats with jazz-inflected basslines and intricate sound design. In 2024’s vast electronic landscape, it still holds relevance. The title track and the chaos of “Steinbolt” showcase Squarepusher’s daring complexity. At the same time, the gentle “Tommib Help Buss” anticipates the softer, introspective electronic styles that are now popular.

The remastering, overseen by Tom Jenkinson himself, brings a new level of clarity. Originally unsatisfied with the mix, Jenkinson has brought out fresh dynamics and details in each track. The live-recorded bass solos and layers of distortion now feel more immersive than ever, particularly on “Iambic 9 Poetry”, where the fluidity of the bass and delicate melodies shine with newfound depth.

In addition to the remaster, Venus No.17 Maximised compiles rare tracks from the Ultravisitor promos, offering fans a complete experience. This limited-edition release is more than just nostalgia; it’s a testament to Squarepusher’s enduring innovation. Ultravisitor still feels forward-thinking and unpredictable, making it a touchstone for electronic music enthusiasts in 2024.

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