Search - Bigod 20 :: Bog

A definite classic, but the mixes are somewhat lacking

J. Derek Reardon | KC, MO, USA | 08/15/2000

(3 out of 5 stars)

"It's a shame BiGod20's "The Bog" single is so hard to find. With great rhythms, programming, and a yell-along chorus, "The Bog" was a great dance floor stomper and early 90s industrial dance classic. The genius of Talla 2XLC (founder of Zoth Ommog) and Jalloqin combined with the voice of Jean Luc DeMeyer (of Front 242) make this almost as addictive as Front 242's classic "Headhunter." Released as a single well before their full album (Steelworks in 1992), "The Bog" continued to establish BiGod20 as an early 90s industrial dance powerhouse with awesome dance singles (also look for "America," "Carpe Diem," and "On the Run"). Also known as "The Bog"/"I-Q" single, this one is a definite must-have for industrial dance fans, if you can find it.The Radio Mix of "The Bog" is not a great place for this single to start, at least as a hook. Like the name implies, the song is fairly basic for more a general audience appeal, lacking the programming depth of other mixes with which I associate with this song. However, it's a decent starting point if you understand that this is the "stripped down" model. The Shot Mix is definitely the one you want to spin off this CD if you want a filled, thrashing dance floor. The song takes a harsher turn with the vocals and more violent slam-you-on-the-floor programming. I love to yell along with the "I'll take you down there, I'll take you" refrain as I tear up around the room. The Techno Duck mix is another floor-filler, but it takes some slightly different (perhaps a tad more industrial sounding) programming cues. It also introduces the use of movie samples, though I'm not sure of the movie. Definitely very cool, I would have liked it even better if the samples had been used with more frequency in the middle of the song. The last song, "I-Q" (Mindless Version), is a bonus track that BiGod20 dedicated to Clive Barker, "the master of gore." Mainly an instrumental piece, it is interspersed with a variety of sound and movie samples. While the programming is definitely edgy, I question the use of some of the samples given the dedication. The computerized voices (like Battlestar Gallactica) sound out of place, and I can't understand the use of the bowling samples. But as an overall composition, it's pretty good - I just don't get it.I actually found this single after I'd discovered "The Bog" on BiGod20's 1991 "Carpe Diem" single. Given the amazing Dance Mix version on that single, I must admit that I am disappointed with the offerings on this single. I've listened to all versions of the song again several times, and I really have to honestly give this single just 3 stars. I have great respect for BiGod20. And while these versions are decent, they aren't nearly as awesome and mind-blowing as the Dance Mix. Also, my confusion with the "I-Q" single keeps me from really enjoying that song.For BiGod20 novices, I would first recommend getting the "On the Run" single, which is still easy to find and contains an amazing and classic cover of Madonna's "Like a Prayer." If you discover that you like BiGod20, then I'd recommend looking for the hard to find singles. "The Bog" is a definite classic and must-have for any BiGod20 or industrial dance fanatic. However, I'd recommend finding the "Carpe Diem" single first. If all you can find is "The Bog" single, you should definitely get it and enjoy. However, if faced with a choice, and you want the most awesome and danceable version of this classic, get "Carpe Diem."I'm glad that BiGod20 at least still lives on because of its cult classic cover of Madonna's "Like a Prayer" that resides on the "On the Run" single. However, it's a shame that "The Bog," another definite classic, has been lost to obscurity. If you're a DJ and have been intrigued by BiGod20, search this one out and rediscover an industrial dance classic."

A very good song

D. M. MATALLIN | Valencia, Spain | 04/03/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"The Bog is the first Bigod 20 song i ever listened to, more than 5 years ago. I think it's maybe their best song ever (together with 'One' and 'Slavery is Guaranteed', maybe) It features the magnificent voice of Jean Luc De Meyer, and its EBM rhythms reminds me also of 242 style... but not a copy; The problem maybe is that the single remixes are a bit repetitive and they don't catch up with the original version."

Bigod-20's best ever

D. M. MATALLIN | 08/07/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The best song Bigod-20 has ever mad The Bog is nice and dark. This album is a nice mix of industrial with the dark edge of Goth to it. If you like artist like Skinny Puppy, or Thrill Kill Kult then this is a must have."