Nerve Net

"Nerve Net," released in 1992, marks a distinctive chapter in Brian Eno's prolific career, as he steers away from his ambient roots and embraces a more rock-oriented sound. This album, however, is far from a conventional rock record. Eno infuses his signature experimentalism, blending genres like krautrock, minimalism, and space music to create a unique sonic landscape. The result is a collection of tracks that are both playful and unsettling, with off-kilter beats and distorted sounds that create a sense of disorientation and intrigue.

The album opens with "Fractal Zoom," setting the tone with its eerie, distorted guitar riffs and atmospheric textures. Tracks like "Wire Shock" and "The Roil, The Choke" showcase Eno's ability to create tension and release, with driving rhythms and haunting melodies. Meanwhile, songs like "Pierre In Mist" and "Juju Space Jazz" offer moments of respite, with their dreamy, ethereal soundscapes.

"Nerve Net" is not just a return to rock for Brian Eno, but also a celebration of his eclectic influences, ranging from Chinese opera to Shostakovich. The album's reissue in 2014 includes a second disc, providing fans with additional insights into Eno's creative process and the making of this unique album. Whether you're a long-time fan of Brian Eno or a newcomer to his work, "Nerve Net" offers a captivating exploration of sound and genre, proving once again why Eno is a true innovator in the world of music.