"Hydrology" is an EP by Recoil, a musical project formed by Alan Wilder in 1986. Released on January 25, 1988, the album marks the second release by Recoil, the first being "1 + 2". Despite conceived as a two-track album, "Hydrology" is often considered a single due to its shorter length.
This instrumental album was a significant step in Wilder's journey towards establishing a distinctly experimental and electronica sound profile for Recoil. Being predominantly instrumental, "Hydrology" features a fusion of various musical styles such as industrial, techno, and ambient, creating a unique soundscape that would come to define Recoil's music in later years.
The title, "Hydrology", was inspired by Wilder's fascination with water and its transformative and dynamic characteristics, which he parallels to the exploratory nature of music composition and production. The Hydrology EP also included variations from the earlier release "1+2", enhancing its sonic diversity.
The second EP, though not a commercial success, was critically appreciated for its innovative music, paving the way for Recoil's later albums that cemented Alan Wilder's status as an influential figure in electronic music.
