Album Review: Perception by SHARP2
Released in 1997 under the Belgian label Clockwork Recordings, Perception by SHARP2 is a masterclass in blending Techno and Tribal styles into something that feels both raw and refined. Composed by F. Biazzi and F. De Backer, with production handled by Dance To The Beat, this album doesn’t just sit in the background—it grabs your attention and refuses to let go.
The opening track, Perception 5, sets the tone immediately. It’s punchy, pulsating, and layered with tribal percussion that hits like a heartbeat on overdrive. What makes it stick in my mind isn’t just its relentless energy but also how it builds tension without ever feeling forced. Around the three-minute mark, there’s this subtle shift—a synth line creeps in, almost whispering, before exploding into a full-on techno assault. You don’t just hear it; you feel it. Tracks like these remind me why electronic music can be so visceral.
Another standout is Perception 2 (Remix). If Perception 5 is all about intensity, this remix leans into groove. The rhythm here is hypnotic, drawing you into its world piece by piece. There’s a moment midway where the bassline drops out entirely, leaving only a skeletal framework of hi-hats and echoes. For a second, it feels like the track might unravel—but then everything crashes back in, louder and more chaotic than before. That unpredictability? Love it or hate it, it’s what makes this remix unforgettable.
Belgium has always had a knack for pushing boundaries in electronic music, and Perception fits right into that legacy. While some tracks on the album stray into familiar territory, they’re anchored by an experimental spirit that keeps things fresh. This record isn’t perfect—there are moments where the transitions feel slightly abrupt—but maybe that’s part of its charm.
Looking back at Perception now, over two decades later, it’s striking how well it holds up. In fact, listening to it feels a bit like stepping into a time machine—one that takes you straight to a dimly lit club in '90s Belgium. Weird thought, though: if SHARP2 were making music today, would they still rely on such analog sounds? Or would they embrace modern tech? Guess we’ll never know.
All said and done, Perception deserves a spot in any serious electronic music fan’s collection. Not because it’s flawless, but because it dares to take risks—and sometimes, that’s all that matters.
