Track list:
1. Vasomotric Origin
2. Nephrocalc
3. Neuromechanik
4. Plantiflector
5. Conjunctival Dermoid
6. Astrocytomachine
7. Ofargo I Mortcele
8. Spinaltraum

Siegmar Fricke’s latest release on Stadtgruen is a fine offering of eight “pharmakustic” pieces, to use the concept forged by the musician to describe “reduced and syncopated rhythmic patterns clinically filtered ambiences generated by sampling-technology, electro-modulated voices and linear structure”, in which “automatic rhythm sequences are digitally dissected by bit-crushing and organic ambiences are constantly morphing by trembling waveforms and pitch-curves of complex effect periphery.” Another brilliant demonstration of that musical approach can be found on Pharmaceutik 06, Fricke’s previous release on Test Tube.

Digital minimalism is the keyword here, with titles that hint at some kind of man-machine hybridization, in the most clinical sense. The tracks on Metaprogramming bear similarities with electronic endeavours such as Monolake’s, with groups of repetitive, metallic rhythmic structures slowly evolving against an underlying harmonic tapestry. What makes Fricke’s music interesting and enjoyable is the tension it manages to build and maintain between opposites (coldness/warmth; darkness/light; living/dead; organic/mechanic…)

Metaprogramming is also beautiful because it bursts with a special energy, that at times reminded me of Morph’s (aka Damon Wild) Stormwatch, especially on track 6, “Astrocytomachine”, a personal favorite (along with “Ofargo I Mortcele”).

Track list:
1. Viburnum Farreri
2. Córylus Avellána
3. Cornus Mas
4. Thuja Plicata
5. Amelánchier Ovális