Ever since I first heard Amon Tobin, I've been a fan. So much so that I was willing to buy his debut album, Bricollage, without even giving it a preview. His second effort, Permutation, was not to be outdone, by this reviewer's standards. Then came Supermodified, the third release by this Ninjatune artist. Upon purchase, this CD "supermodified" my Discman and merged with it so I can listen to nothing else.

From the get-go, Amon shakes it up with "Get Your Snack On" - a hard hitting introduction to the Tobin sound. A first-listen gives the impression that this may be another generic "trip hop" or "acid jazz" album (i.e. looped samples with no vocals). But on closer inspection, one realizes that this first track alone is full of layering, drum fills, change-ups, and the like, giving it a true "jam" feel. A drummer I played Supermodified for couldn't help but air-solo over this one.

After this driving start, Amon drops into chill mode, and that's where he really hit me off. The next four tracks show a true feel for electronic jazz. Tracks build, then ebb. Different nuances are added throughout which keeps the ear guessing. Even the most chilled out track kept me dreamy, not sleepy. Then out of nowhere, but at just the right time, Amon takes off again with "Golfer vrs Boxer."

His ability to change and hold moods on a track, and over the length of the entire album transcends the usual boredom that some associate with this kind of music.

You'll find a little bit of everything on this album. Although his sound is much less "electronic", Amon's varied choice of instruments, tempos, and moods is reminiscent of Aphex Twin. One thing you won't find here, though, is vocals, but if this stops you from copping this album then I suggest you rethink your buying strategy. With an album this varied, one doesn't need vocals to retain interest.

Tracks to check for here include, but are not limited to, "Deo," "Slowly," "Get Your Snack On," "Keepin It Steel," and "Rhino Jockey." I've got a number of emcees in mind that I'd love to hear freestyle over "Chocolate Lovely."

The final verdict: If you're a fan of instrumental music, but are tired of repetitive beats and lack of variety on albums, then you'll find this a refreshing leap in the right direction. If you're looking for a starter in the daunting realm of electronica, this is an excellent place to start. All in all, worth a trip to your local music peddler.