Deconstruction: The Celluloid Recordings cover

Deconstruction: The Celluloid Recordings

Bill Laswell · 1993

140 min · 25 tracks · jazz

A fusion of dub, jazz, and funk, blending hypnotic rhythms with experimental soundscapes and intricate production.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    World Destruction Start here — Opening with a powerful blend of beats and samples, this track encapsulates the album's thematic focus on societal collapse and resilience through its dynamic energy.
  • →
    Electric Africa — This lengthy piece showcases Laswell’s signature fusion style, weaving together African rhythms with electronic elements to create a rich tapestry of sound that highlights cultural connectivity.
  • →
    Worksong — Featuring compelling vocal performances layered over a driving beat, this track illustrates Laswell's ability to blend traditional elements with modern production techniques seamlessly.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic journey with varied pacing
  • immersive soundscapes for exploration
  • thoughtful listening in two halves
  • engaging rhythms for movement
  • reflective moments amidst chaos

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer straightforward song structures
  • seek quick, immediate satisfaction

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Experimental — This album showcases a significant departure in sound, merging various styles and pushing boundaries.
Themes
societal collapse· African rhythms fusion· experimental soundscapes
Career context
Released in 1993, Deconstruction: The Celluloid Recordings is a significant entry in Bill Laswell's expansive discography, following his influential work on the groundbreaking album Public Image Ltd.'s 'Album' in 1986. At this time, Laswell was establishing himself as a prominent producer and collaborator in diverse genres, known for his innovative approach to sound manipulation and genre-blending.
Stylistic neighbors
Tackhead· Herbie Hancock· Thievery Corporation

Tracklist

Disc 1

  • 1 World Destruction Start here 5:33
  • 2 Killing Time 2:53
  • 3 Mean Machine 4:42
  • 4 Electric Africa 10:23
  • 5 Worksong 7:15
  • 6 Memories 4:02
  • 7 Death Rattle 4:28
  • 8 Reduction 5:32
  • 9 Uprising 1:07
  • 10 Boat Peoples 7:07
  • 11 For a Few Dollars More 3:53
  • 12 Get Movin' 6:41
  • 13 Busting Out 8:01

Disc 2

  • 1 Oh My People 7:34
  • 2 Cross Examination 11:54
  • 3 Interlock 4:54
  • 4 Harima 6:04
  • 5 Locomotive 3:43
  • 6 Change the Beat 7:40
  • 7 Shango Message 7:44
  • 8 Legs 2:04
  • 9 My Balls/Your Chin 2:27
  • 10 Square Dance 4:29
  • 11 Natalia 4:56
  • 12 O.A.O. 4:43

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata