Growling Mad Synchro – Velociraptor

The Velociraptor EP combines the talents of mid-period T.I.P. artists Growling Mad Scientists and Synchro. In the years that followed, both acts began to follow seperate paths, forsaking the early innovative spirit for commercial aims and rhythmic navel-gazing, respectively. In 1997 these acts were developing into their creative prime, however. An intoxicating off-shoot of Dutch break-trance and rich psychedelia results in two solid tunes on this slab of vinyl.

Velociraptor effortlessly slips into intricate rhythmic permutations, smoothly rattling from one detailed structure to the next. The Synchro influence is very apparent in the drum work, but GMS provide their scratchy leads and a wicked haunting atmosphere. The execution is subtle yet entrancing, substantiating the song’s persistant appeal.

Bandicoot on the Run is a fast, fun, and funky tune with a drive that reminds me of Caterpillar. Tightly timed breakbeat samples ricochet amidst the bouncing kick and phrenetic bass line, developing an enticing grind which is thrown into overdrive in the staggered 3/4 timed body section of the track. Wacky cartoon-style samples, probably from the console video game of a similar title, provide some levity as the track digs deeper into wobbly acid-laced rhythms. It’s infectious, groovy, and still psychedelic in the old style. Sick material!

All in all the EP offers up one frantic monster of a tune alongside a moderately more serious track with a dark edge. This is without question another successful record from the T.I.P. Records glory days.