Audiopile Review: Another ‘90s braindance classic gets its due—Bochum Welt’s Module 2, initially issued back in ’96 on Richard D. James’ beloved Rephlex Records. Arriving in the wake of artists like µ-Ziq, Squarepusher and, of course, Aphex Twin, Module 2 was a standout in a growing crowd that was trying their hand at the next wave of IDM. And while many of his contemporaries moved into increasingly complex zones, pushing the BPM limits and density of their productions, Bochum leaned hard into the melodic edge of IDM, aiming to reveal the emotive depths from within the genre. His beats and breaks, which could be anything from a fizzy shuffle to more muted stutter-steps, were playful without requiring too much mind power to untangle. But it’s the warmth of his ambient synths in the backdrop that have made Module 2 such a sought after gem from the already fecund era, bathing the album in an effervescent glow of heavenly ambience and melodic intrigue, teasing the brain while massaging the scalp. Fans of Cylob’s Cylobian Sunset, AFX’s Analogue Bubblebath series and Seefeel remixes, or the dreamier side of IDM will absolutely need to cop this one. The album is also expanded with an extra 5 tracks recorded during the era, so it might be worth it to upgrade if you’re already gripping an OG.

Module 2 is the 1996 debut album from Gianluigi Di Costanzo operating as Bochum Welt. It appeared on the beyond legendary Rephlex label helmed by Aphex Twin and Grant Wilson-Claridge. Aphex influenced Bochum Welt’s enchanting, lush melodic electronica but there’s some mutual admiration – Aphex can still be heard playing ‘Extra Life’ from this very album in his DJ sets. The original tracklisting has been expanded from eight to thirteen tracks, including previously unreleased material. Coveted Braindance classic!!