STM 116 - AnD

The architects of this mix are the Manchester-based electronic musicians Andrew Bowen and Dimitri Ploumpidis, collectively known as AnD. Bowen hails from Belfast, while Ploumpidis originates from Thessaloniki, Greece—an intersection of two distinct temperaments shaped by different social and cultural environments. This dynamic interplay infuses their collaboration with vibrant colour and sensation, resulting in a sound that, unexpectedly, resonates almost harmoniously. Even before AnD formed in the late ’90s, Bowen was collecting records and frequenting raves, while Ploumpidis harboured a deep interest in DIY electronic instruments (he is a certified designer of electronic circuits). Their paths crossed while studying music production at the School of Sound Recording in Manchester. Step by step, they developed their unique, dynamic sound permeated with industrial music motifs, quickly immersing themselves in the intense world of techno. The past nine years have been immensely productive for the duo—during this time, they have released numerous records on concept-driven and ever-growing labels such as Electric Deluxe, Modal Analysis, Geoff Presha’s Samurai Horo, Black Sun Records, Repitch Recordings, Horizontal Ground, among others. In 2011, they launched Inner Surface Music—a 100% vinyl imprint they run together with Tom Dicicco to release recordings by other promising artists.

The foundation of AnD’s production lies in powerful and dense sonic dynamics, distortions, and colossal rhythmic structures. They probe the boundaries of computer-generated music while incorporating a wide palette of sounds generated using various analogue synths, drum machines, and effect units. Notably, some of the devices they use are constructed based on DIY principles, adding authenticity to their entire musical identity. In one interview, AnD described their production concept as “there is calm before the storm,” a vivid explanation that unveils why their embossed compositions, balancing tough beats with elegant background ambience, are so manoeuvrable and feature strong beatless sections reminiscent of theatre soundtracks. Their critically acclaimed EPs, such as Bow, FVS, or Kundalini, are a good starting point to acquaint oneself with AnD’s musical intent and philosophy.

Furthermore, Secret Thirteen Mix 116 is an enigmatic and subtly thrilling audio compilation, weaving together 27 spectacular abyssal records released between 1975 and 2014. In this mix, AnD did not follow the ideas driving their previous mixes for Electric Deluxe or Resident Advisor. Instead, they took an alternative direction and assembled something considerably more eclectic, including a wide spectrum of music by gifted experimental musicians from different eras such as Peder Mannerfelt, Ø, Muslimgauze, Cabaret Voltaire, Chris & Cosey, Jeff Mills, among others. Patient and precise mixing, supported by thoughtful emotional and structural development, creates continuity and showcases AnD’s precision, dexterity, aesthetic understanding, and attentiveness to even the smallest details. John Cato’s abstract photograph, Double Concerto #13, could serve as a cover for AnD’s mix—both carry the weight of systematic chaos and artistic effect, compelling countless interpretations.

The mix was made as as soundtrack to an unreleased science fiction film that takes you to the depths of a post apocalyptic world.

Mutated life re-emerges amidst complete destruction. Purple hazed dystopian landscapes with steel-pinned conifers in cubist, sulphur-ridden oceans. Snaps of summer crossing Iridescence have broken in a driven parade of asphyxiating pillows. Animalistic electromagnetic fields have taken control of the minds of the surviving human race. Novelled by its static characterisations. An Iron Sky becomes a golden dawn.

Now … The Subliminal doctrine kindles morphosis with esoteric frequencies.