Abyssinia Selasie by Muslimgauze

Although Bryn Jones’ work as Muslimgauze certainly numbers dub within its influence, rarely is that influence treated as directly or centrally as it is on many of the tracks found on Abyssinia Selasie. A rarity among the material Jones left behind .

The opening title track alone, with its steady bassline and dopplering, insistent beeps, is as close to an unadulterated dub track as Jones ever came, even as the separate coda “Benzedrine Wallah” starts cranking up the outbursts of percussion. Not every song on this trim, focused collection goes in that same direction, but even elements like “Arab”’s wobbling percussion and female vocals share a similar sensibility. Even the stark “Mind of a Suicide Bomber” is more coolly menacing than overtly hostile.

Muslimgauze occupied a strange place in the musical world. He was a powerful, prolific innovator, releasing albums that were alternately beautiful and visceral, full of ambient electronics, polyrhythmic drumming and all kinds of voices and sound effects. The recordings earned him a devoted following in underground, experimental and industrial music circles worldwide.

The New York Times 1999