Alexis Taylor, Charles Hayward, John Coxon, Pat Thomas

A new group comprising Hot Chip's Alexis Taylor, This Heat's Charles Hayward and Treader label regulars John Coxon and Pat Thomas, this quartet are an explosive improvisational outfit, with Hayward leading from the backline via some stunningly powerful drumming. The remainder of the musicians take up predominantly electronic instruments - mostly synthesizers and samplers, but within Taylor's musical menagerie you'll hear a spot of electric guitar, percussion and shruti box. This record is more of an avant-rock project than it is an out-and-out jazz-styled improvisation, and that's chiefly to do with Hayward's very direct, team-player approach to his role, seldom slipping out of a tightly organised groove, but when the drummer does permit room for a little exploration, the other three rise to the challenge with a flurry of obscure sonorities and incisive electronic oscillations.