- The Detroit artist's first solo record in five years was worth the wait.
- "I know that every track is not going to end up a classic," Aaron "Fit" Siegel said back in 2013, "but at the very least a producer needs to make their very best attempt at capturing an original idea, emotion or thought from within themselves. Otherwise, what's the point?" Seven years since the quote, Siegel still seems to be working with this idea planted in his mind. Formula is the first solo record we've had since 2015's Carmine, an EP whose title track has, indeed, ended up as a low-key classic. In the meantime, there have been collaborations with Kassem Mosse, DJ Sotofett and Tim Love Lee, each of which has embodied some of the individual character Siegel aspires to. He isn't in the business of burning rulebooks, but Siegel's gravelly house, techno and electro is uncommonly shaped and capable of real emotional depth.
This is true of "Exist On," Formula's A1. It's different from "Carmine" in many respects, but it shares its affecting mix of hope and melancholy. The vibe is very much early Warp Records, from the bleep-style bass to the loose breakbeat and Artificial Intelligence-evoking pads, which shine most brightly in the track's brief but heavily poignant breakdown. If it weren't for the current global situation, it'd be natural to say "Exist On" could be a favourite at smaller and more discerning festivals. It's for sure one of Siegel's finest.
The other two tracks explore subtly rebellious ideas. "Formula" is Detroit techno with a seriously unruly bassline and a downwards—rather than forwards—sense of momentum. "Wayne County Stomp" is a demented experiment in combining synth pop with gritty Chicago house. I've got to admit that neither of these descriptions quite nail it, which is perhaps evidence that Siegel has been able to capture something fresh from within himself.
Tracklist01. Exist On
02. Formula
03. Wayne County Stomp