Split with Umpio and tyhjiø was released a few weeks ago by Bitter Insect Recordins, a label ran by tyhjiø https://bitterinsectrecordings.bandcamp.com/album/split
Both Finnish noise artists, Umpio is probably a familiar name to most, and tyhjiø to some, but it definitely deserves more recognition. The project has been active since at least 2015 (according to Bandcamp entries at https://tyhjio.bandcamp.com/) and seems to improve with each release. Check out the tracks on the Kolari and Feedback Solidarity compilation for a taste. In my opinion, this release showcases the best tyhjiø material I've heard so far, featuring two long tracks and one shorter Umpio mashup. It's undoubtedly a project worth keeping an eye on.
Umpio's side consists of two live sets from 2021. For those who have seen Umpio live, they know that he is one of the best in the game. This translates perfectly to this tape. The live sound is perfect, with amusing sounds from the audience left in the mix (in Finnish though). https://umpio.bandcamp.com/album/split-w-tyhji
The cassettes are dubbed on spray-painted recycled tapes. Even though they are "recycled," they are of good quality. Often, older 90s recycled tapes are better than the new ones provided by factories nowadays. They just need to be clean and not used too much. Spray painting the tape is a nice touch, but sometimes there are spray remnants left at the beginning of the tape path. I usually turn the spray-tainted part inside with a few rounds before hitting the deck and remove it before the B-side comes to an end. This way, spray particles won't scratch or taint the playheads of the deck.
The packaging is also really nice – a screen-printed folded cardboard box slightly larger than the normal cassette case. On top of that, the cassette is wrapped in a double-sided A4 black and white insert with information of both artists. Overall, it's a really nice output with nearly 60 minutes of highly satisfying noise.