| Elements 1989–1990 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | ||||
| Compilation album by | ||||
| Released | 1996 | |||
| Genre | Detroit techno, ambient techno | |||
| Length | 66:57 (1996 CD) | |||
| Label | Planet E Communications | |||
| Producer | Carl Craig | |||
| Carl Craig chronology | ||||
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Elements 1989–1990 is a 1996 compilation of early recordings by Detroit techno musician Carl Craig, released under the pseudonyms Psyche and BFC. It was released on Craig's label Planet E Communications and reissued in 2013.[1]
In 2011, Fact named it one of the 20 greatest ambient albums ever made.[2]
The recordings comprise some of Craig's earliest music, including his first recording "Neurotic Behavior."[3] Beginning his career in his bedroom, Craig worked with a borrowed 4-track recorder.[3] Some of the tracks were recorded in the homes of Derrick May, Renaat Vandepapeliere (of R&S Records), and singer Sarah Gregory.[3] These recordings were released on labels such as Transmat, Fragile, and Craig's own Retroactive imprint.[4] The track "Elements" was released on the various artists compilation Techno 2: The Next Generation (1990).
| Review scores | |
|---|---|
| Source | Rating |
| AllMusic |  [5] |
The compilation showcases Craig's atmospheric, introspective approach to techno, a feel which Fact described as "tranquilised sci-fi."[2] Critic Tony Marcus praised the compilation, labeling the recordings "narcoleptic, interior techno."[2] AllMusic called the compilation "quintessential Detroit techno" which demonstrated "Craig's talents as producer even at this early point in his career."[5] Critic John Bush called the recordings "seminal" and stated that they are "long pointed to as the birth of the second wave of Detroit techno."[4]
All tracks by Carl Craig (tracks 1-5, 11 credited to Psyche; tracks 6-10, 12, 13 credited to BFC).[3]
