[2009] The Low Frequency In Stereo - Futuro

Futuro is the noisiest, most daring effort of this norwegian band which has been likened to bands like Stereolab and Radiohead in the past (particularly the former), but in the reality is more than just that. Noisy riffs reminiscent of the no-wave era and heavy motorik drums akin to Neu! (along with the bold use of feedback) are the most obvious highlights here, but the combination of female and male vocals with a garage rock feel, and the campy, light sound of the trumpet (like in the song Solar System) makes this band really stand out as it deserves.

Download it here: [320][V0]


Buy it directly from Rune Grammofon here.

[2010] Haggatha - Haggatha

Second release (and first LP) of this new Canadian act, formed by members of Goatsblood and linked to 3 Inches of Blood, delivering a furious slab of sludge not too unlike Thou, Deathcrawl and Moloch, particularly the former (which can be heard in the crust-influenced vocals). In rare occasions I hear solid debuts like this one, which carries some of the past influence with Goatsblood and gives it a slower tempo, enhancing the heaviness.

Download it here: [320][V0]


Buy it directly from Blind Date Records here.

[2007] Ultralyd - Conditions For A Piece of Music

The least accessible Ultralyd album, focusing more into free jazz and improvisation to a greater extent, compared to their latest efforts. It still has plenty of energetic moments in which the best of their noise-rock/jazz fusion is displayed, but it also focuses on their darkest aspects with guitar-oriented free improv, one half of the album. This is sort of a middle ground album, and it could please those already familiar with bands like MoHa!, since it swings that way at several parts with its dissonant noise-rock.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Buy it directly from Rune Grammofon here.

[2009] Tim Catlin & Machinefabriek - Glisten

I've been in such a big Machinefabriek bing lately, that's an understatement. I think it's mostly because of his collabs more than anything else, although Machinefabriek by himself does a great job at adjusting and molding soundscapes and field recordings the way he wants, and every collab is merely an extension of said ability.
In this case, Tim Catlin (experimental guitar composer from Australia) assumes the task of spicing up Machinefabriek's usually low key compositions, by adding guitar-based, unrecognizable sound patterns, turning what once was basically ambient music into a bittersweet experience, constantly changing song after song. The only downside: it's as short as an EP (clocking at 35min), which may not seem enough for a release of this caliber.

Download it here: [320][V0]


Buy it directly from Low Point here.

[2008] UFO Gestapo - Vatependr!

First full length of one of the greatest new acts coming from France I've heard so far. Somewhat resembling the hazy, slow-dragging riffing style of bands like Noothgrush, UFO Gestapo stands out with his mix of hardcore anger with dark, paranoiac humor.Overall bizarre band, with some drug-fueled moments from time to time.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Sold out in Streaks Records.

[2011] 40 Watt Sun - The Inside Room

5 years after Watching From A Distance and splitting up, leaving their fans with only a few records in their back catalog (and none as good as the former), the Warning guys reform with a different bassist (William Spong) to form 40 Watt Sun. Pretty much carrying where they left, The Inside Room is an exercise in despair and melancholy, with the same load of sentimental purity that characterized Warning's now classic album. Musically speaking there's a better use of dynamics and atmosphere exploration in this album, although a similar approach is given to the songs: slow, somewhat simple hooks with little bass focus, and emotional vocals going hand in hand with the depressing vibe. An instant favorite, at least for me.

Download it here: [320][V0]


Buy directly from Metal Recycler (Cyclone Empire's Webshop) here.