Animals on Wheels’ “Designs & Mistakes” is a jazzy drum’n'bass record (or “drill’n'bass” as it has been dubbed by some), created by electronist Andy Coleman who incidentally lives and records all his music on his boat. The music is reminiscent of Aphex Twin and similar projects, but is far from brilliant. At times it contains ambient and rather soothing instrumentals, other times it pulsates with loose jazz samples and mesmerising loops. It’s ok for those who enjoy the genre and want to hear everything it has to offer, but for all us others it’s just about average.

In short, not likely to stand out in your memory five years down the road, and that is certainly not the mark of a great album.

Year Released: 1997
Label: Ninja Tune Records
Related Link: Animals on Wheels Official Site
Date Reviewed: 2003-12-24
Author: Andreas