The Reference Group - 2025 - File Under Unpopular

(38:10; Cuneiform Records)

There is no doubt that Cuneiform are one of the most important labels in the world as they continue to make available music which otherwise would have been lost, and here we have a fine example in The Reference Group who were only around in 2007/08, played just one gig and recorded just eight tracks (all collected here). The group was formed by Ralf Nygård (digital bass with a Zanzithophone or Casio Digital Horn) and Michael Maksymenko (drums, some vocals) who we then joined by Jimmy Ågren (slide guitar) and Mathias Danielsson (guitar). Four of the songs were recorded under normal studio conditions, while the others were recorded with a digital hand-held recording machine which only had two channels, so this sounds rawer.

The band were geographically separated which made it difficult for them to rehearse which led to the dissolution of the band, which is a real shame as this is a very powerful and enjoyable album indeed. They were a rock band but definitely coming into that genre from a RIO or avant perspective, with the slide guitar often to the fore which gave it a certain sound, and then we have a digital bass which could be manipulated to provide different sounds (“Organization Strikes Again” sounds as if the filthiest bass in the world is being bowed). This does not sound like songs which were recorded nearly 20 years ago but instead is cutting edge and of today. “Them” sounds as if David Byrne had been involved, all jagged sharp edges, but for the most part this album feels as if the guys have been living a life where they have survived by consuming Beefheart on a daily basis. They have then brought that into the modern environment and created something which is definitely uncommercial, hence the album title, yet is also fascinating throughout. The more this is played the more significant one realises this group were in a musical sense, and they should have been far more highly recognised. Yet again Cuneiform have released an absolute indispensable gem. 

Kev Rowland, September 2025

Links:
http://www.cuneiformrecords.com/