Ammnesia (Mr. Fingers)

• acid-house
• deep-house
• Mr. Fingers

Step back in time, to 1989, the era when the underground sound of Chicago house music was pulsating across dancefloors worldwide. A pivotal year in the history of electronic music, and the birth of an album that would alter the course of the genre forever: Ammnesia by Mr. Fingers, a producer known for his undeniable talent and influence, who would go on to shape the sound of house and techno for decades to come.

Born in 1960 in the Windy City, Chicago, Mr. Fingers – real name Larry Heard – was a pioneer in his field, an artist of unparalleled skill who effortlessly blended the sounds of soul, jazz, and gospel with the driving force of electronic beats. His unique approach to house music would inspire countless artists in the years that followed, as his innovative soundscapes laid the groundwork for a new era of electronic music.

Now, over three decades later, we look back on the groundbreaking release of Ammnesia, a seminal record that still resonates with listeners and producers alike. The album is a testament to Mr. Fingers’ distinct style, a style that would come to define an entire genre. To this day, the album is revered as a classic, its influence felt in every corner of the electronic music world.

Ammnesia, released in 1989, is a four-track masterpiece that not only encapsulates the essence of house music but also stands as a sonic representation of the era in which it was created. The album’s A-side features two unforgettable tracks: “Ammnesia” and “Mystery of Love,” while the B-side boasts the iconic “Can You Feel It” (Remix) and “Washing Machine” (Remix). These four tracks serve as a blueprint for the future of electronic music, illustrating Mr. Fingers’ unparalleled vision and talent.

The opening track, “Ammnesia” (6:30), is a hypnotic journey into the depths of house music. Its haunting, repetitive melody lingers in the air, an echo of a time when electronic music was still raw and unrefined. The track is a testament to Mr. Fingers’ ability to craft an atmosphere of darkness and mystery, drawing listeners in with its seductive rhythm and ethereal synths. It’s a song that demands attention, forcing you to lose yourself in the immersive world it creates. “Ammnesia,” a track that defies expectation, a track that transcends the ordinary and transports you to another realm.

Following “Ammnesia” is “Mystery of Love” (5:00), a song that delves deep into the soulful roots of house music. Its infectious groove and captivating vocals showcase Mr. Fingers’ love for jazz and gospel, fusing these elements together to create a track that is as uplifting as it is mesmerizing. The repetitive nature of the melody serves to reinforce the song’s theme of love and its enigmatic allure, a theme that resonates with listeners even today. “Mystery of Love,” a song that captures the essence of human connection, a song that reminds us of the power of emotion and the universality of love.

As we flip the record to the B-side, we’re greeted by the unmistakable sound of “Can You Feel It” (Remix) (5:50), a track that has become synonymous with the birth of house music. Its relentless, driving beat and infectious bassline serve as the foundation for a song that has been sampled, remixed, and revered by countless artists since its release. “Can You Feel It” is a question that echoes through the annals of electronic music history , a question that challenges listeners to embrace the raw energy and emotion of house music. The repetitive use of the phrase “Can you feel it?” highlights the power of the genre to evoke a sense of unity and shared experience, solidifying the track’s status as an anthem for a generation. “Can You Feel It” (Remix), a song that defined a movement, a song that continues to inspire and invigorate.

Completing the album is “Washing Machine” (Remix) (3:50), a track that showcases Mr. Fingers’ mastery of rhythm and texture. The song’s relentless, machine-like percussion and hypnotic, repetitive synths create a sonic landscape that is at once futuristic and nostalgic. The track’s mechanical, industrial aesthetic is a testament to the innovative spirit of the late 1980s, a time when electronic music was rapidly evolving and pushing the boundaries of what was possible. “Washing Machine” (Remix), a track that encapsulates the transformative power of technology, a track that serves as a reminder of the limitless potential of human creativity.

Ammnesia, an album that broke new ground in the world of electronic music, an album that has stood the test of time and remains a touchstone for producers and fans alike. The release is a testament to Mr. Fingers’ singular vision and his ability to craft music that transcends the boundaries of genre and era.

The album’s unique blend of soul, jazz, gospel, and electronic elements set it apart from other releases of the time, as did its innovative use of repetitive melodies and rhythms. These elements would go on to influence countless artists, including the likes of Daft Punk, Aphex Twin, and Carl Craig, to name just a few.

Ammnesia’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to transport listeners back to a time when electronic music was still in its infancy, when the possibilities seemed endless and the future was ripe with potential. The album serves as a time capsule, a snapshot of an era that would forever change the course of music history.

The legacy of Ammnesia and Mr. Fingers is undeniable, as their influence can be heard in the work of countless artists that followed. The album not only pushed the boundaries of what was possible within the realm of electronic music, but it also served as an inspiration for future generations of producers, encouraging them to explore new sonic territories and forge their own unique paths.

As we look back on Ammnesia from today’s perspective, we can appreciate the album’s lasting impact and the role it played in shaping the course of electronic music. This masterpiece, born in the heart of Chicago, has left an indelible mark on the world, a mark that continues to be felt more than three decades later.

In conclusion, Ammnesia stands as a testament to the power of music to inspire, to challenge, and to unite. It serves as a reminder of the boundless potential of human creativity and the transformative power of sound. The legacy of Mr. Fingers and Ammnesia will forever be remembered, a legacy that echoes through the halls of music history, a legacy that continues to shape the soundscape of the present and the future.