Phantom Sound Clash Cut Up Method One by Method Of Defiance: A Wild Ride Through Genres
Alright, let’s talk about Phantom Sound Clash Cut Up Method One. This 2014 gem from Method Of Defiance is a genre-blending beast that somehow makes Electronic, Jazz, Funk/Soul, Drum n Bass, Dub, and Free Improvisation all hang out in the same sandbox. It shouldn’t work, right? But oh, it does.
First off, the lineup is ridiculous—like "whoa, did they really get all these legends together?" Bill Laswell, Bernie Worrell (RIP to the funk wizard), Graham Haynes, Foday Musa Suso, Adam Rudolph, and more. These cats aren’t just playing music; they’re conjuring soundscapes like sonic alchemists. And the label, M.O.D. Technologies, feels like the perfect home for this kind of fearless experimentation.
Let me tell ya about two tracks that stuck with me. First up, there’s Nebuchadnezzar. Man, this one hits different. It starts off with this eerie, almost cinematic vibe—like you’re walking through a foggy alley at night—and then BOOM, the bassline drops in, courtesy of Bill Laswell. You can feel it in your chest. The drums are tight but loose enough to keep things unpredictable, and Graham Haynes’ trumpet adds this haunting layer on top. It’s not something you’d blast in the car, but late at night? Perfect.
Then there’s another track I can’t stop thinking about—I think it’s called Sound Clash (or maybe I’m mixing it up, who knows). Whatever its name, it’s got this funky, syncopated groove that feels like Bernie Worrell decided to have a little fun before heading off to the great gig in the sky. There’s a moment where the keys and percussion lock into this hypnotic rhythm, and suddenly you realize you’ve been nodding your head for five straight minutes. That’s the magic of this album—it sneaks up on you when you least expect it.
What I love most about Phantom Sound Clash Cut Up Method One is how unapologetically weird it is. Most albums try to fit neatly into one box, but this one says, “Nah, we’re doing ALL the boxes.” It’s not always easy listening, but isn’t that the point? Music should challenge you sometimes.
Random thought: If this album were a person, it’d probably be the guy at the party wearing mismatched socks, telling wild stories, and somehow making everyone laugh. Not sure what I mean? Just listen to it—you’ll get it.
So yeah, if you’re into stuff that breaks rules and doesn’t care about being trendy, give this one a spin. Your ears might thank you… or hate you. Either way, it’s worth it.
