One of my favorite albums of 2021 turned out to be Bo Ningens self titled debut from 2010!

Wanting to do a physical release of their first record but not content with a simple reissue or remastering, intercontinental psych rockers Bo Ningen have produced an entirely new mix. It includes two remixes as well, placed in the track list right after their new/original counterparts which is a genius move.

They’re both very deconstructed and essentially serve as bonus tracks without introducing any new material. DnB producer ENA dubs out “Post Yohkai” into a welcome head-nodding mid album intermission. A few tracks later and japanoise legend Merzbow follows the noise forward groove punk “Maguro” with a raw and bluesy encore. It has the vibe of a hardcore punk band who, having finished their 30 minutes of destruction, repeats their most ferocious song at twice the volume with half the strings remaining.

Though the track listing is a bit rearranged, from there it still ends with the same 15 minute ripper now called ∆. The new mix reveals a good bit of detail while retaining all the weight that makes it such a satisfying closer. The whole record is an excellent reimagining of an already solid debut that preserves their early playing and songwriting while building upon the experimental aspects using the groups ever more experienced ears.