Who The Hell Is Tuss & What Have You Done With Aphex Twin?

July 31st, 2007

I found a remarkable story on the Village Voice today. Part mystery thriller, part treasure hunt, part news. It concerns the discovery of some “new” talent, a pair of electronic musicians who collectively go by the name of Tuss, but who individually call themselves Brian Tregaksin and Karen Tregaskin. Tuss released Confederation Trough in their early days, then the prestigious release that caused electronica enthusiasts to sit up and take notice - Rushup Edge on the elite UK publisher Chrysalis.

The article in the Village Voice mostly reviews this epic album, but seems stuck on the idea that the Truss is no rookie electronica act. The writer instead forwards the notion that has been circulating through lists and forums - that this is another eponymous work by the elusive Richard D James, a.k.a. Aphex Twin.

Whether indeed it is Mr. James with a new alias, or not, the album sounds delicious, a true score for anyone who appreciates well-orchestrated electronica.

The article goes on to describe Richard D James’ career, oft comparing him to Christ? An attempt to prove that he must be the genius behind these mysterious new Truss works. It’s an easy assumption to make, since the next Truss releases are allegedly coming out on Rephlex Records, a label that James has a vested interest in.

Tuss Might Be A Well-Kept Secret Tuss

The one thing that the author seems unwilling to consider, or simply has no experience with, is the fact that many intensely amazing electronica bands remain active for a decade or more before being even slightly recognized by a bigger spotlight. Usually by the time Rephlex or Chrysalis hears a work of electronic art, the band is well developed. A perfect example of this would be Oakland’s best kept electronic secret - Nommo Ogo. Check them out if you’re curious.

Anyway, I thought some electro-heads here would enjoy this treasure hunt of an article, so I thought I should pass it on -

Aphex Tuss in the Village Voice

More Links

Aphex Twin will be stepping out of semi-retirement to play at the Portishead-curated, All Tomorrow’s Parties in December in the UK. For more info on that event (which also features Sunn O, Earth, Julian Cope and more), scope the HearingTest report:
Portishead Invites Aphex Twin, Julian Cope and Earth To Play ATP

Richard D James music$pace

Nommo Ogo official website - you can listen to audio there…

A Classic Aphex Twin video for “Windowlicker” - the intro is long, but stick with it:

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