crucial

A first EP is to be released in the wake of the promising collaboration between two hip-hop and electronica stalwarts of the experimental, who have for years been working at the frontiers of the music world.

The project is an original collaboration between Animals on Wheels (Andy Coleman) and iCON the Mic King (Michael King), who met in 2006 in Rakvere, Estonia. Their recognition in each other of a kindred spirit in their respective quests for razor sharp lyrical adventures and morphing rhythmic exploration was the beginning of a journey which is already gaining momentum.

With a background in computer-based electronic sounds, this is for Andy the first time he has worked with a vocalist on a project. Andy comments that this is “the cold world of ones and zeroes mixing with human creativity. The machine and the soul.” As a hip-hop artist, Mike’s inventive delivery brings an energetic audience-facing aspect to the Robots.

The impressive technical abilities of these two combine in a project which doesn’t take itself too seriously, but which brings together the very best of their respective genres with complex rhythms and crackling vocals. Their music is effortlessly visceral, pure grit which nevertheless presents melodic charm.

Robots with Hearts are signed to UK indie TAPE, the EP is available on limited run vinyl or digitally and also includes a remix of Downward Spiral by respected underground Dubstep and Electronica producer du jour Timeblind.

iCON the Mic King has been in the UK tracking vocals at the world famous Sarm Studios for the follow-up album, due for release in early 2010