All Hits: Memories
is the first solo release by Australian drummer
Jim White
, best known as a member of the majestic instrumental rock group
Dirty Three
, as well as a frequent collaborator with
Bonnie "Prince" Billy
,
Cat Power
Marisa Anderson
, and countless others. Mostly comprised of brief, fragmentary pieces, the album showcases his creative drumming techniques, sometimes multi-tracking his rolls and brush strokes, adding minimal keyboard accompaniment. The album was co-produced and partially co-written by
Guy Picciotto
(
Fugazi
). "Soft Material" is one of the few tracks that's allowed to stretch out, and it's a more atmospheric mood piece with pattering drums that crash in at the right moment. "Names Make the Name" is more hypnotic, with layered drum eruptions and a few jarring edits over a subdued keyboard bed. "Long Assemblage" is five minutes of unaccompanied drumming, teasing a rhythm with clicking hi-hats before falling into free space. ~ Paul Simpson