Nervous Acid / Future? (Bobby Konders)

• house
• acid-house
• Bobby Konders

Entering the hallowed halls of electronic music history, one cannot help but stumble upon the legends of yesteryears, who have shaped the sonic landscape in ways that still reverberate to this day. Bobby Konders, the Brooklyn-based DJ and producer, who masterminded the Massive B label, initially as a division of Nu Groove Records, is one such enigmatic figure. In the early 1990s, Konders’ house music productions were transcendent, and it was in the year 1992 that he released the seminal record, “Nervous Acid / Future?” The record stands out as a testament to Konders’ genius, a unique blend of various sonic elements that coalesce to form a distinctive sound.

Looking back from today’s perspective, the record has aged like a fine wine, a veritable classic that refuses to lose its charm even after three decades. The genre and era of the record are unmistakable: New York house music in the 1990s, a time when electronic music was undergoing a rapid transformation, and Bobby Konders was right in the thick of it. In this review, we shall dissect “Nervous Acid / Future?” in the signature De:bug magazine style, shedding light on the intricate details that make it a timeless masterpiece, and weaving stories around the record’s creation and impact.

“Nervous Acid / Future?” fits snugly into Konders’ discography as one of his most memorable releases, a testament to his prowess as a producer who was unafraid to push boundaries and experiment with new sounds. The record is composed of five tracks, with A1 being the Version, A2 the Poem, A3 the eponymous Nervous Acid, B1 Future, and B2 the Instrumental. Each track is an exploration in itself, fusing together various influences and elements that seem to defy categorization.

A dive into the heart of A2 reveals the extensive sampling from Mutabaruka’s “Dis Poem,” a bold and innovative move that demonstrates Konders’ penchant for experimentation and pushing the envelope. The words weave in and out, creating a hypnotic rhythm that refuses to let go, echoing and resonating within the listener’s mind. Repetition becomes an essential tool, repetition that anchors the song’s structure and propels it forward into new dimensions.

Konders’ unique approach to rhythm and melody shines through in the record’s overall structure. He deftly blends traditional house beats with elements of dub, reggae, and spoken word poetry, creating a complex soundscape that is both instantly recognizable and refreshingly new. The juxtaposition of the driving basslines and the ethereal, atmospheric synths generates a captivating tension, a feeling of anticipation that courses through the veins of each track.

The titular track, “Nervous Acid,” is a prime example of this tension, as the relentless 303 basslines weave in and out of sync with the percussion, creating a sense of unease and excitement that is difficult to ignore. The acid elements in the track pay homage to the genre’s roots while pushing it forward into uncharted territory, a reflection of Konders’ innovative spirit.

As we delve deeper into the record, it becomes clear that Konders was inspired by a plethora of artists and influences, from the aforementioned Mutabaruka to pioneers of electronic music like Kraftwerk and Juan Atkins. This melting pot of inspiration is evident in the eclectic nature of the tracks, with each one taking on a distinct personality while remaining firmly rooted in the realm of house music.

The Future track is a testament to Konders’ forward-thinking approach to production. A blend of futuristic synths, driving beats, and spacey soundscapes, the track feels simultaneously grounded and otherworldly. The instrumental elements in B2 further showcase Konders’ versatility as a producer, weaving together a tapestry of sound that feels both familiar and alien. The track is a journey into the unknown, a sonic adventure that beckons listeners to step into the void and embrace the infinite possibilities that lie within.

In examining the record’s theme or message, it’s essential to consider the context in which it was released. The early 1990s was a time of rapid change and evolution in electronic music, and “Nervous Acid / Future?” can be seen as a reflection of this dynamic period. Konders was pushing the boundaries of what was possible within the genre, experimenting with new sounds, techniques, and ideas that would go on to inspire countless producers and artists in the years to come.

The use of repetition in the tracks, whether in the form of lyrical phrases or rhythmic patterns, serves as a potent reminder of the cyclical nature of music and its ability to transcend time and space. Repetition becomes a powerful force, repetition that pulls listeners into the vortex of sound and propels them forward into the future. This concept of repetition, coupled with the record’s theme of exploration and innovation, creates a sense of continuity and connectedness that resonates throughout the entire release.

While “Nervous Acid / Future?” may have been released over three decades ago, its impact on the world of electronic music is undeniable. Bobby Konders’ daring and innovative approach to production has left an indelible mark on the genre, inspiring countless artists and producers who have followed in his footsteps. From the rhythmic complexities of A1’s Version to the hypnotic spoken word poetry of A2’s Poem, and the driving acid-infused beats of A3’s Nervous Acid, each track is a testament to Konders’ creative genius and vision.

As we immerse ourselves in the record’s intricacies and stories, we are transported back to a time when electronic music was in its infancy, a time of experimentation, collaboration, and unbridled creativity. Today, as we stand on the precipice of a new era in electronic music, we can look back on “Nervous Acid / Future?” with admiration and appreciation for the groundwork it laid and the inspiration it continues to provide.

In conclusion, Bobby Konders’ “Nervous Acid / Future?” is a masterpiece that has stood the test of time, its influence and importance in the world of electronic music remaining undiminished. As we celebrate its legacy and continue to explore its depths, we are reminded of the power of music to connect us across time, space, and generations. From its groundbreaking use of sampling and repetition to its genre-defying structure, rhythm, and melody, “Nervous Acid / Future?” is a record that demands to be heard, experienced, and cherished.