Fire CD

Somewhat surprisingly, Fire marks Kevin Martin's first full-length excursion as the Bug for seven years. Martin believes it's hist most solid sonic statement yet, and we have to agree. While there are some hints that the famously spiky and forthright producer has mellowed with age - he's now a parent, and that tends to change your world view - much of it was recorded during lockdown and the associated paranoia and claustrophobia can clearly be heard throughout. Musically, it's typically incendiary, with fuzzy, foreboding aural textures and heady guest vocals (Flowdan, Daddy Freddy, Moor Mother, Logan and Manga St Hilaire all feature) rubbing shoulders with thrusting, bowel-bothering dancehall basslines and beats that variously touch on trap, dubstep and grime. Formidable fare all told.