Merzbow

Mighty Ace is a large-scale work spanning 50 minutes in a single track, showcasing remarkable sonic variety within unified form. According to Akita's notes, it shares characteristics with companion piece Tenshinkaku. The mix of digitally generated electronic sounds and highly inorganic looping reminiscent of machine operation - sounds not previously heard in Merzbow's work - creates impressions so diverse it's hard to believe this represents just the beginning of computer use.

The treatment of loop sounds proves particularly appealing: loops lasting for certain durations, cut off by noise, then reinserted with different grooves. This keeps the music rhythmic despite its length, creating flow and listening experience similar to a DJ mix - keeping listeners enthralled for the entire 50 minutes. The title suggests supreme confidence, the "ace" who masters all challenges.

Credits: Composed, Mixed, Performed By: Masami Akita
Recorded & mixed at Bedroom, Tokyo 1999
Remastered at Munemihouse, Tokyo 2019