Version 2 Version: A Dub Transmission
Bill Laswell · 2004
51 min · 6 tracks · jazz
A hypnotic blend of deep bass, echoing rhythms, and atmospheric soundscapes that redefine the boundaries of dub music.
Top tracks — play these first
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Dystopia Start here — Opening with a brooding atmosphere, this track sets the tone for the album's exploration of dystopian themes through intricate sound layering and dynamic shifts.
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Simulacra — The rhythmic complexity here highlights Laswell's jazz influences, merging unpredictability with hypnotic grooves that invite deep listening and reflection.
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Babylon Site — This track features rich, textured soundscapes that encapsulate the essence of urban life while seamlessly integrating various audio samples and effects.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album's deep bass and atmospheric layers create a cohesive listening experience within the dub genre.
What we noticed
- The album features a consistent use of deep bass lines that anchor the tracks, creating a hypnotic groove.
- Each track employs layered echoing rhythms that build atmospheric soundscapes, often with minimal melodic content.
- The sequencing of tracks flows seamlessly, with transitions that maintain a steady pace and mood throughout.
- Composition 25% of the score
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6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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8/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady mid-tempo cosmic flow
- immersive rhythmic sound exploration
- for late-night listening
- transcendent vibes for meditation
Maybe skip if you
- seeking upbeat, fast-paced tracks
- prefer standalone, catchy singles
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Experimental — Revitalizes dub music with innovative soundscapes, diverging from previous works.
- Themes
- dystopian soundscapes· urban life textures· hypnotic grooves
- Career context
- By 2004, Bill Laswell was a prominent figure in the avant-garde music scene, known for his innovative fusion of genres. 'Version 2 Version: A Dub Transmission' came as a follow-up to his explorations in dub and jazz, showcasing his ability to craft immersive sonic landscapes. This release further solidified his reputation as a boundary-pushing producer and collaborator.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Tackhead· Herbie Hancock· Thievery Corporation
Tracklist
- 1 Dystopia Start here 9:43
- 2 Simulacra 8:57
- 3 Space-Time Paradox 6:18
- 4 Babylon Site 8:43
- 5 Night City 8:55
- 6 System Malfunction 8:38
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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