Windowlicker - Aphex Twin

At the height of Richard D. James' unexpected popularity, the Cornish electronic artist did what many similarly reputable artists had done before and since: he sold out. But while the song 'Windowlicker' was undoubtedly his most commercially viable composition yet, its bland style, hidden messages and more obvious satire of its famous, controversial music video make it clear that Aphex Twin's intention is to infiltrate and expose the mainstream music industry for what it is, to destroy the system from the inside. He does a reasonably good job by appending some truly alienating works to this extended single. 'Windowlicker' itself is a fairly ambient and mellow ...

This is as far as Aphex Twin has come to hitting the big time. The tune has some supremely appealing sections, the likes of which would probably entrall even your average R&B devotee, and it is these which makes it likeable in the mainstream. However, as with anything made by the Aphex Twin, a closr look reveals utter, utter insanity just waiting to burst through at any point. The timing is messed about with, the beats pop up where by all rights they shouldn't, and the tune repeats and stops and eats itself at points where (and in ways which) no self-respecting musician would allow. Such is the beauty of Aphex Twin. Oh, and the video's ace, too. ...

This was possibly Aphex Twin's (aka Richard D. James) most successful release, and certainly his most 'pop', helped by an expensive video by Chris Cunningham. He has suggested that it's also his last. The track is similar in tone to Daft Punk's funky retro-techno, but distinctively more complex and disjointed, plus with a heavy dose of sleaze. Many fans were disappointed by 'Windowlicker's 'cute' melodies and comparitively simple beats. However I think it's great tongue-in-cheek fun, especially during the summer with your windows rolled down. Its mainstream success also expanded Richard's audience. The ...