Diversions

As far as diversions go, Orbital's Diversions isn't a particularly interesting collection. Orbital is at the top of their game when they inject multiple tempo changes and compelling samples into their lush techno creations. Diversions contains few such transcendental moments. Comprised mostly of remixes by the band and guests C.J. Bolland, Psychick Warriors Ov Gaia, and Underworld of songs from Orbital 2, the EP stretches out with little variation over the course of an hour. Orbital 2, though comprised of perhaps too much studio trickery, presented itself as a compelling, cohesive album. Diversions, other than the stellar opening mix of "Impact USA (The Earth Is Burning: Diversion)," is straightforward techno without much compassion. On that opening song, Orbital displays intense, throbbing electronics; the song sounds like a magic carpet ride through a tropical rainforest or a more subtle Utah Saints song. Though the four appearances of "Lush" are certainly lush, only C.J. Bolland's mix takes flight, with its ringing sounds and punchy breakbeats. Underworld drops the ball quite uncharacteristically, providing a driving but uninspired take on the original. "Semi-Detached" is pleasant enough, but at 14 minutes it overstays its welcome twice over. Diversions is an EP best left for longtime fans who already know the charms of Orbital's full-length albums. ~ Tim DiGravina