ReWorks I II by Solex Mechanics: A Gypsy Jazz-Electronic Mashup That’ll Tickle Your Ears
Let’s cut to the chase—ReWorks I II is one of those albums that sneaks up on you like a cat in socks. Released back in 2003 by Germany’s own Solex Mechanics, this little gem blends electronic beats with gypsy jazz vibes so smoothly it feels like Django Reinhardt and Daft Punk decided to jam together (but cooler). The album doesn’t scream for attention; instead, it whispers seductively into your ear while spinning its web of quirky charm.
First off, kudos to Andreas Schilling for penning the lyrics on track 1 (McDougal’s Cave) because holy smokes, this tune sticks to your brain like gum under a table. It opens with an infectious groove that’s part swing, part robot heartbeat, and somehow all swagger. Imagine being at a speakeasy where everyone's dressed as steampunk cyborgs—that’s McDougal’s Cave. You can practically see the neon signs flickering behind your eyelids when you listen to it. And let’s not forget how Solex Mechanics mixed the whole thing themselves, giving it that DIY edge that screams “I’m too cool for mainstream labels.”
Then there’s Les Yeux Noirs, which hits differently. This track grabs hold of your soul and refuses to let go. With its haunting melody and hypnotic rhythm, it’s like falling down a spiral staircase but enjoying every second of it. The fusion of traditional gypsy jazz elements with glitchy electronic textures creates something both nostalgic and futuristic—a vibe only Germans could pull off without looking ridiculous. Props to www.watermeier.net for the artwork too; it perfectly matches the album’s chaotic elegance.
The rest of the tracks are solid gold too—Twisted lives up to its name with some seriously warped basslines, and Erik’s Dream sounds like what happens when insomnia meets creativity at 3 AM. But honestly? Those two standout tracks alone make ReWorks I II worth adding to your playlist.
So yeah, here we are, almost two decades later, still talking about an album released on Not On Label (because who needs corporate backing when you’ve got talent?). Listening to ReWorks I II feels like finding a hidden treasure chest filled with oddities and wonders. It reminds me that music doesn’t have to fit neatly into boxes—it thrives in the spaces between genres, styles, and expectations.
And hey, if nothing else, this album proves that even robots can swing if they put their circuits to it.
