Jeff Mills – Exhibitionist 2

Back in 2004, Jeff Mills released the Exhibitionist, an audiovisual feast in the truest sense. Through this release, we were offered an insight into some of the methodology and skills that went into a Mills' DJ set. The accompanying videos allowed us to get up close with the intricacies of the mix, capturing the DJ flow as Mills embarked on a tour de force of his 12”s across three turntables. At the time, this presented a unique perspective into what a DJ does.

So now, 11 years on, Mills finally releases his long-awaited sequel. What’s involved this time round? Well, across the CD/DVD package we’re provided with a detailed look into Mills’ techno artistry via: DJ mixes (one of which involves a live drumming collab with Skeeto Valdez), a look at his creative workflow in the studio (analogue equipment jamming), through to some improv workouts with the trusty Roland TR-909 (a signature component in his DJ sets). The slick multi-camera footage of Mills in action in these various practices offers quite compelling viewing throughout.

The centrepiece of the package is the Exhibitionist 2 album (CD), which is essentially a DJ mix featuring exclusive material (notably 12 unreleased cuts) from Mills’ long-standing Axis label. The soundtrack here – just as you'd expect from a Mills DJ set – is characterised by otherworldly soundscapes, bleeps, hypnotic grooves, techno rhythms – underpinned throughout by the 303, and 909 techno staples. Highlights include: AB, the kind of lush techno soundtrack you could imagine accompanying sunrise at a festival. In contrast, Spiralism feels like the soundtrack to a wonky sci-fi movie dream sequence, the mid-set mind melter then. Dance of the Star Children, which as the title sets up – conjures images of a futuristic rave taking place under the stars.

Older Axis material, such as seminal track The Bells are threaded throughout the mix to add a wider context and significance. Although it is worth identifying some of the standout tracks, those used in the mix act as tools in creating the overall sensory effect, and that effect certainly equates to more than the sum of it's parts. Mills’ improvisational approach to DJing is present throughout the Exhibitionist 2 mixes, and it’s the human touch, or occasional vulnerable elements that add a degree of realness to the proceedings.

Existing fans (which this release will mainly appeal to) certainly won’t be disappointed with the range of material on offer, there’s plenty. Although perhaps there might not be enough appeal to keep you revisiting again and again, the package nevertheless provides a comprehensive musical record for one of techno music’s true pioneers.

Mills has remained at the forefront of the genre for three decades, and now into his 50s, he continues to push the boundaries of the form. One need only look at the variety of recent work: compositions for classic Fritz Lang film Woman in the Moon, commissioned work as the resident-artist at the Louvre Museum, or forthcoming performances with the BBC symphonic orchestra – to see further evidence of his artistic endeavours to breach techno music beyond just the formulaic and functional workings of a club system.