Some recently released local electronic albums have abandoned their sequenced, mechanical ways in exchange for raw emotion. Caustic's powernoise and Stochastic Theory's melodrama are a far cry from the cool, robotic detachment often associated with the genre.
Enter Null Device. The third CD by Eric Oehler's project may not be an adrenaline rush, but it's strong on mood, driven by world-music influences. On tracks like "Triangular," the tribal drumming evokes mystery and quickly grows hypnotic.
There's no shortage of straightforward electro-dance pop to be found here, either. But Excursions succeeds by drawing on contrasts between electronic mechanics and rising emotion.
