Aphex Twin Releases New Single "Blackbox Life Recorder 21f"

Aphex Twin returns after five years with a new track, “Blackbox Life Recorder 21f,” and announces a new EP.

The forefather of IDM and a pivotal figure in ambient music, Richard D. James of Aphex Twin has formulated some of the most ornate electronic works to land in the collective music catalog since time immemorial. No matter what music circles you abide in or what corners of the Internet you find yourself hanging around most, there’s a good chance that James has crossed your path at least once – if not from discussion of his peculiar music videos or sonic masterpieces on music forums, then from his presence in meme culture.

Beginning as far back as the 80’s when he was just a teenager, James has been making boundary-pushing electronic music that has stood the test of time. Tracks like “Windowlicker” have become cult favorites among fans and casual listeners alike, but go even further back to the likes of Selected Ambient Works 85-92 and you’ll find a batch of his experimental works from as early as 1985 when he was just a teenager. Fast forward nearly 30 years later, and he’s still releasing output that crystallizes his status as a seminal electronic artist.

The last the world heard from Aphex Twin was five years ago when he unveiled his Collapse EP, but fans starting buzzing in January when he teased his return to the music scene and subsequently confirmed it by announcing his headlining status at London’s Field Day Festival. Now, months later, the award-winning producer is back with a new single that features more of his trademark elaborate sound design. “Blackbox Life Recorder 21f” totes erratic breaks, dreamlike pads and idiosyncratic production for another firsthand look into the kaleidoscopic brain of Richard D. James.

The release of “Blackbox Life Recorder 21f” comes alongside an EP announcement, much to the delight of fans. Blackbox Life Recorder 21f / in a room7 F760, will hit shelves and streaming services this July 28 on Warp Records. The EP’s release will precede his performance at Field Day Festival on August 19, where he will perform in addition to artists like Bonobo, Arca, Jayda G, and Jon Hopkins.

Dig into the latest from Aphex Twin by streaming “Blackbox Life Recorder 21f” on Spotify or your preferred platform, and follow him on social media to keep up with what’s to come!