This week's electronica releases reviewed

BIBIO

Ambivalence Avenue, Warp ****

A couple of albums for the Mush label have already demonstrated Stephen Wilkinson's growing prowess when it comes to pastoral electronics. Working in much the same neck of the woods where Boards Of Canada and Ultramarine once hung out, Wilkinson has an unerring ability to create sounds that are both nostalgic and forward-thinking. On his fourth album, and his first for Warp, he demonstrates that there are a couple of sides to his sound. The lovely title track is probably the best example of Wilkinson's fondness for folky, soft-toned soundscapes, while S'viveis the kind of funky bop you'd usually see coming with a Nightmares On Wax tag attached. Then there's his fondness for bumping breaks and beats, best represented here by the chunky, glitchy Fire Ant. An album for all seasons. www.myspace.com/mrbibio

Download tracks: Ambivalence Avenue, S'vive