UTVÆR!

"Update"

2012-12-21T13:22:00.000-04:30

I apologize for the lack of consistent updates, I've been away focusing on a series of web projects that have been taking most of my time. One of them has to do with music, the other two are interesting online stores, so maybe I'll share the details with you later.
Or not.

Meanwhile, I'll leave you with an absurd article examining the allegedly racist undertones behind this ice cream brand (in my country it's called EFE, but it's basically the same) taken from the Aftonbladet, a well known Swedish tabloid. Hilarious.

PS: I'm also considering a rehash of the contents of this blog. I'd like to focus on books and film reviews for a while, I've had a few drafted posts regarding books that I haven't finished for undisclosed reasons. There might be a collaborator soon, we'll see how it goes.

27/08/2011 "update" (prev 5/31/11): due to some real life duties, I haven't been able to update the blog, which means the planned rehash has been once again delayed. As soon as I find some time, I'll work on the design, some new album posts and articles. For now, I won't be able to take care of any requests, I apologize for that.

[2008] Daniel Levin Trio - Fuhuffah

2011-07-23T00:20:00.000-04:30

By request... Daniel Levin in cello, Håker-Flaten (The Thing) in bass, Gerard Cleaver in drums.

Download it here: [V0][FLAC]

Buy it directly from Clean Feed here.

[2011] Valborg - Barbarian

2011-07-21T14:48:00.000-04:30

The most active Zeitgester Music project as of lately (considering the latest three albums), Valborg's new album is a followup of the sound established in Crown of Sorrow, combining several influences and aesthetics in their music ranging from progressive rock to death and doom metal, making their music hard to describe at first.
Similar enough, however, to the likes of late Celtic Frost and Triptykon (specially the latter), and this comparison is fair given their participation in Tom Warrior's Roadburn Festival 2010 and later praise he gave to the band. What's for sure is that the unique blend of sounds in Barbarian makes it one of my favorites of this year.

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Zeitgeister Music here.

[2011] Seven Sisters of Sleep - Seven Sisters of Sleep

2011-07-21T14:31:00.000-04:30

Great debut album of this new hardcore/sludge band from California, and easily one of the best things I've heard coming from Southern Lord's new batch of hardcore/crust-punk bands. Short, heavy songs filled with hardcore madness and gloom brutality, gravitating towards the likes of Eyehategod and Thou, distancing themselves from these bands with their energetic, fast-paced delivery.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Buy it directly from Southern Lord here.

[2011] Horseback/Locrian - New Dominions

2011-07-21T14:13:00.001-04:30

The new collaboration between Horseback and Locrian is here, released in no other label but Utech Records. Two tracks clocking around 20min in total; my favorite being Our Epitaph, focusing in building upon the song structure using a breathtaking layering, involving Locrian's ever present tremolo-picked chords and Horseback's galloping slow riffing, accompanied by sparse drumming turning the song in a heavy trip. The Gift goes the opposite way, setting an eerie mood with the slow, crashing guitars complementing the piano and layered harsh vocals. Short but compelling release.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Buy it directly from Utech Records here.

[1993] Stereolab - The Groop Played ''Space Age Batchelor Pad Music''

2011-07-19T19:19:00.000-04:30

As of lately, my go-to choice for Stereolab. One of their earliest albums, while it seems softer than Peng!, in here the motorik-fueled beats are more accentuated than in their next albums, even featuring an obvious Neu! homage. There's some noisy tracks that resemble what they'll later do in "Transient Random..." but in a more digestible package. Perfect for fans and starters alike.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Buy it directly from CD Universe here.

[2007] Peter Brötzmann, Paal Nilssen-Love & Mats Gustafsson - The Fat Is Gone

2011-07-19T19:05:00.000-04:30

Three long songs, three renowned exponents of the contemporary european jazz scene. The Fat Is Gone gathers Paal Nilssen-Love and Mats Gustafsson (from The Thing) with one of the big legends of the German jazz scene (Peter Brötzmann), who displays his wildest, most intense musical side to be in par with the two Scandinavian improvisers, resulting in a very dense record, a must listen.

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Robot here.

[2005] The Thing - Live at Blå

2011-07-19T18:50:00.000-04:30

Look at that smug Paal's face...
This is their first live album recorded around 2005, which has some songs from their debut album and Garage but mostly reinterpreted and loosened out. The live renditions of those songs (Awake-Nu being my favorite and one of the most recognizable songs) leave nothing to be desired from those epic sessions, filled with even more energy than the studio counterparts.

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Insound here.

[2009] Chord - Flora

2011-07-19T18:36:00.000-04:30

Chord is a collective of four guitar musicians formed in Illinois (among them Trevor De Brauw from Pelican), focusing their efforts into a stripped out, minimalist arrangement revolving around a single chord, distorted and reinterpreted as they please, keeping into account the overall tone and texture of each composition. Inspired in composers such as Tony Conrad and Glenn Branca (specially the latter, since his direct influence can be felt throughout the songs), Chord delivers satisfactory results with this album, their debut.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Buy it directly from Neurot Recordings here.

[2011] irr. app. (ext.) / Nurse With Wound - 4 Orphans

2011-07-19T18:25:00.000-04:30

After Angry Electric Finger 3, 4 Orphans is the new collaboration between these two bizarre figures of the sound collage/dark ambient scene, although it's somewhat of an irr. app. (ext.) album mostly, considering it's based around old Nurse With Wound arrangements, along with the weirdest things the former could come up with in order to spice up the surreal vibe of the album. As usual, artwork by Matt Waldron.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Buy it directly from irr. app. (ext.)'s Bandcamp here.

[2011] Tuusanuuskat - Nääksää Nää Mun Kyyneleet

2011-07-06T19:37:00.000-04:30

Fonal Records' latest release, Tuusanuuskat is a collaborative work between their label manager Sami Sänpäkkilä (also known as ES) and Jan Anderzén (Kemialliset Ystävät), both very involved in the past and current finnish experimental scene. This album is a series of disjointed sound collages revolving around similar themes, heavily layered in non-abrasive noise. Defying description, the underlying melodies buried beneath these 5 tracks are both confusing and soothing in nature, concealing its real depth.

Download it here: [192][V0]

Buy it directly from Fonal Records here.

[2005] Zu & Mats Gustafsson - How To Raise An Ox

2011-06-30T17:17:00.000-04:30

If there was any doubt that Mats Gustafsson had the required talent to work alongside a jazz band with math-rock leanings (and therefore, constricted to a measure) while retaining the freedom of his intense sax delivery, How To Raise An Ox single-handedly dissipates them all. This incredible collaboration shows the best of Zu in terms of math-rock and free improvisation while leaving enough space for Gustafsson's short and energetic sax outbursts, complimenting without overshadowing the Italian collective.

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Atavistic Worldwide here.

[2011] Torture Corpse/Architeuthis Rex - Ignorance/Daemon

2011-06-30T16:58:00.001-04:30

Architeuthis Rex returns this year in a split with the paranoid, trance-inducing, dark ambient project known as Torture Corpse. 4 songs, three full songs on side A belonging to Torture Corpse and a longer one on side B, belonging to Architeuthis Rex, both following a tribal, psychedelic sound evoking wilderness and ashen, forbidden territories. Released under the niche label Stunned Records, dedicated mostly to noise, drone and dark ambient artists with abstract leanings.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Currently out of stock at Stunned Records.

[2011] Larsen & Z'EV - In V.Tro

2011-06-16T17:26:00.001-04:30

Half recorded during live sessions and another half recorded in studio, this collaboration was commissioned as a "soundtrack for micro-cinematic images on the study of cells", as a tribute to Giuseppe Levi, who researched and exploited the great potential of the in vitro technique, which gives name to this album. Aside from the interesting backstory, Larsen proves again that they shine in collaborative projects. Z'EV delivers his usual experimental approach to percussion to the mix, giving it a strong abstract feel while Larsen controls the mood of the album with its minimalist guitar and synth pair. Somewhat similar to their Nurse With Wound collaboration, Larsen sticks to their minimalistic post-rock side bordering in drone while Z'EV takes care of the bizarre background.

Download it here: [V0][FLAC]

Buy it directly from Important Records here.

[2010] Marcia Bassett/Jenny Gräf - Paradam

2011-06-16T17:06:00.000-04:30

A female duo mapping the mysteries hidden beneath the empty cosmos and the tightly compressed stone crystal with their heavily layered and abrasive noise tapestry, making a clever use of brass instruments and subdued harmonies. Mastered by the veteran James Plotkin.

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Utech Records here.

[2010] Architeuthis Rex - Dark As The Sea

2011-06-16T15:42:00.000-04:30

Sunken civilizations, inhabited by fearsome creatures and forgotten, devout cultures subdued by eons of tectonic and oceanic chaos. Architeuthis Rex (the monicker used by the italian artist Antonio Galluci) does it best to manifest all these obscure dreamworlds evoked by the immensity of the sea, in which bizarre entities come back to life.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Buy it directly from Utech Records here (scroll down).

[2011] The Haxan Cloak - The Haxan Cloak

2011-06-11T20:48:00.001-04:30

One of the most interesting Aurora Borealis artists of this year, The Haxan Cloak have released a few live CDr EPs independently through the years, this s/t being their first LP under a label. The music is composed of classical arrangements, electronically processed via free improvisation and combined with haunting field recordings, creating a very distinctive aura avoiding further descriptions. Another one of these introspective albums that fully reveal themselves after constant listens at high volumes.

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Aurora Borealis here (scroll down).

[2011] Daniel Levin - Inner Landscape

2011-06-11T16:30:00.000-04:30

Inner Landscape is Daniel Levin's first solo album, released via Clean Feed as many of his trio/quartet works. Fully improvised, this album is a stripped out display of his cello skills that have been already evident in his ensemble works but in here we get to appreciate them in full form, exploring the wide range of possibilities the stringed instrument has to offer with a dynamic, precise and beautiful delivery.

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Clean Feed here.

[2006] - Panzerpappa - Koralrevens Klagesang

2011-06-11T14:40:00.001-04:30

Norwegian avant-prog in the vein of Samla Mammas Manna and Art Zoyd, although in a less dark, instrumental style that differences them from the classic RIO bands. It still follows some of the ideas from the scene while applying its own personal style, which becomes evident from the very first listen. Good material for those looking for rare, modern gems within the avant-prog scene.

Download it here: [V0]

Currently unavailable.

[2001] Luigi Archetti & Bo Wiget - Low Tide Digitals

2011-06-11T14:21:00.000-04:30

This guitar/cello duo from Italy and Switzerland respectively is one of the few non-norwegian artists releasing material via Rune Grammofon, focusing on a series of three albums (so far) ranging from ambient to jazz, with a very minimalist approach to their music. This is their first one released back in 2001, very minimal and low key, setting the roots for their next releases.

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Rune Grammofon here.

[2011] Gregg Kowalsky - Battery Townsley

2011-06-11T14:01:00.000-04:30

Recorded inside the WWII bunker that gives this release its name, using a similar method for his Tape Chants, in which he locates cassette players across a room creating stacked, ever-evolving loops with the output. One of the most interesting drone releases of this year from the ones I've seen.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Buy it directly from Kowalsky's Bigcartel site here.

[2011] Fire! with Jim O'Rourke - Unreleased?

2011-06-11T13:38:00.000-04:30

After two years of their first album, Fire! teams up with Jim O'Rourke to release the follow-up, 4 new tracks pushing forward the abrasive, repetitive style of the trio with his piercing guitar blasts and clever sound experiments. Intense collaboration, it adds up to another successful Gustafsson-related project in which O'Rourke collaborates, and already in constant rotation for me. Thoroughly recommended.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Buy it directly from Rune Grammofon here.

[2011] Der Blutharsch And The Infinite Church of The Leading Hand + Aluk Tolodo - A Collaboration

2011-06-01T18:39:00.002-04:30

Tight, syncopated drumming, wonky bass and martial industrial madness. What's not to love? The new collaboration between these two dark beasts is out, and as expected, it shows the best of both bodies of work and much more. Considered a continuation of Der Blutharsch's first release in this vein, in which the noisy psyschedelic-rock band White Hills participated. Outstanding release.

Download it here: [~~256~~][V0]

Buy it directly from Amortout here.

[2011] Nurse With Wound - Orgasm Mix

2011-05-28T19:53:00.001-04:30

Sold at the KOKO show back in May 15th, making it a tour-only release. Abrasive loops of noise, interlaced with haunting, indiscernible sampling.

Download it here: [V0][FLAC]

Unavailable for purchase.

[2010] The Skull Defekts & The Sons Of God - Received In Studio Dental, Gothenburg

2011-05-27T15:36:00.000-04:30

A bizarre collaboration between part of The Skull Defekts (typically known for their noisy, stripped out guitar output) and the bizarre duo The Sons of God, whose main focus are free performances, noise and visual exploration (each documented in a somewhat long discography). The set recorded for this album is comprised by a tense, unresolved aura full of scraped metallic sounds and an empty, haunting atmosphere.

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Utech Records here.

[2006] The Thing - Action Jazz

2011-05-21T21:45:00.000-04:30

In what could be considered their best release (at least in my opinion), Action Jazz delivers the most intense performance of the trio, displaying a tightly orchestrated setup in each one of the songs. This time the band focuses in covers, from Ornette Coleman to Lightning Bolt, breaking apart with a fast, energetic interpretation of jazz and noise rock bands. Only the songs Better Living... and ...Through BBQ were originally composed by the band, and both are eclectic, free improvisations, ranging from tight, minimal outbursts to violent explosions of sax and metals.

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Robot here.

[2011] Oikos - Ecotono

2011-05-21T21:24:00.000-04:30

Second album of this Spanish duo, mostly comprising of oscillating drones and gently reverberated guitar, reminding at times of Andrew Moon's project RST (also signed to Utech Records), except more minimal and brooding, relying mostly in the blurred, overlapping layers of drone track after track.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Buy it directly from Utech Records here.

[2009] Fire! - You Liked Me Five Minutes Ago

2011-05-20T09:26:00.001-04:30

Another Gustafsson-related project, and this time it's a mixture between psychedelic/noise rock and free jazz, full of piercing feedback and abrasive landscapes, adding up to the screaming sax. Heavily energetic, this album in particular shows a brand of jazz relying mostly in repetitive patterns, building up and collapsing with each passing minute.

Download it here: [V0][FLAC Part 1 Part 2] Updated!

Buy it directly from Rune Grammofon here.

[2010] Rose Kemp - Golden Shroud

2011-05-14T02:11:00.000-04:30

Rose Kemp was a weird discovery for me. While I'm used to female vocals in doom metal, specially in the way bands like Serpentcult and Blood Ceremony incorporate them, Rose Kemp goes beyond these two bands, with an energetic, gospel-like delivery that instantly becomes the center of attention. It caught me off guard the first time I heard it, the way the vocals emphasize the heaviness of the band while almost bordering cheesy territories (just barely) was just unique. Musically it stays mostly on a traditional doom metal mode, but it goes into folk rock territory in several occasions, not as much as her previous albums though, but it's definitely there. Quite a mix, for those looking for something different in the genre.

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Rose Kemp here.

[2009] Supersilent - 9

2011-05-14T01:22:00.000-04:30

Back to the extremely low key improvisations, consisting mostly by fiddling with organs. This is definitely another album in the vein of 5 or 6 (specially 5), whose quiet, tense parts are more prominent than those with instrumentation. Dark and brooding, it still manages to retain the style of the band, despite having no percussion at all.

Downloaad it here: [V0][FLAC]

Buy it directly from Rune Grammofon here.

[1984] K.U.K.L. - The Eye

2011-05-14T01:04:00.000-04:30

One of the earliest projects involving Björk, and easily the one that captured the insanity that is often hinted but not fully displayed in her well known solo career. Simply put, not only she was able to shriek, scream and ramble in the way only someone with her vocals would, but she was also in a band that emphasized it, lyrically and conceptually speaking. KUKL (sorcery in icelandic, apparently) is an underrated band that heavily focused into experimental punk and art rock, dabbling at times with the hazy, drugged out akin to psychedelic rock, reverberated and chaotic.

Download it here: [V0][FLAC]

Buy it directly from One Little Indian here.

[2007] Sunburned Circle - The Blaze Game

2011-05-14T00:02:00.000-04:30

A very intense, live collaboration between two masters of psychedelic jams, Sunburned Hand of The Man (USA) and Circle (Finland). Together they delivered a long, almost non-stop show full of blissed out solos and slow building patterns, which reminds me of the best improvised moments in Amon Düül II, everything tightly layered,without a single quiet moment.

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Conspiracy Records here.

[2011] Master Musicians of Bukkake - Totem Three

2011-05-07T00:29:00.000-04:30

Their latest release and the last from their Totem trilogy, this album is the perfect closure for an amazing series of albums that explored the occult, unknown places of the Earth with its array of sounds, influences and bizarre elements. Comparing bands is always unfair, but it seems to me that they've already gotten closer, if not surpassed, bands from the psychedelic krautrock era such as Agitation Free and Can (saving the distances of course), by combining the best of the psychedelic rock sound with strong eastern influences, and late 20th century's filmography. And on that note (while following the idea of their previous single), this album is a homage to John Carpenter's horror films, mimicking the vintage synths and dark atmosphere that characterized classics like The Thing and the Halloween series.

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Important Records here.

[1986] Shub Niggurath - Les Morts Von Vite (Reissue 1997)

2011-05-06T23:53:00.000-04:30

More french avant-prog, and this time is the turn of the legendary Shub Niggurath. Inspired by Magma and Art Zoyd, their occult, haunting vibe typical of the french bands following the contemporary classical approach in progressive rock back then. It's not as energetic as Magma was (with its strong jazz elements), but it's as bombastic and full of the same free improvisation that characterized the bands from the well known Rock In Opposition movement.

Download it here: [V0][FLAC]

Buy it directly from Musea Records here.

[2007] Supersilent - 8

2011-05-06T23:37:00.000-04:30

Similar in vein to 7, less chaotic and with an emphasis in Helge Sten's electronic dabbling. Part of this session became part of what was later released as 11, the same free form drumming with Henriksen's slow and sultry trumpet can be heard here.

Download it here: [V0][FLAC]

Buy it directly from Rune Grammofon here.

[1978] Univers Zéro / Art Zoyd - Live at Theatre du Taur, Toulouse, France

2011-05-06T23:24:00.000-04:30

A somewhat rare bootleg of a 1978 show in France, in which Univers Zéro and Art Zoyd shared the stage and even played songs together. This bootleg recording is not complete though (some songs are missing), but what most would look forward to hear (a collaboration between both bands) is present in Complainte.
Aside from that, this bootleg has songs from Univers Zéro's Heresie era, and Art Zoyd's first album played live; it's not the best recording ever since the mic pans from channel to channel and there's a few other flaws, but even then it's worth having, particularly for Univers Zéro's Jack The Ripper, excellent live rendition of one of their most famous songs.

Download it here: [V0][FLAC]

Unavailable for purchase.

[2005] Supersilent - 7

2011-05-04T08:58:00.000-04:30

Live DVD release (only audio provided), following the continuity of their previous releases but straying away (once again) from the sound of their preceding album (heavily relying in electronic elements) in order to showcase their wide experience in free improvisation, clocking at 1h48min of live show.

Download it here: [V0][FLAC]

Buy it directly from Rune Grammofon here.

[2010][REQUEST] Mop Meuchiine - Mop Meuchiine plays Robert Wyatt

2011-05-01T17:12:00.000-04:30

Another Robert Wyatt tribute, and this time is the collective Mop Meuchiine, fronted by the prolific Pascal Maupeu, with an intense collaborative project which ranges from the jazzy feel of early Soft Machine to the intense, improvisational post-rock delivery of bands like Godspeed You! Black Emperor and similar.
Excellent material.

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Le Chant Du Monde here.

[2001] Noothgrush - Failing Early, Failing Often

2011-04-30T14:31:00.000-04:30

Yet another compilation of Noothgrush's early material (splits and unreleased songs), this time the last one before splitting up. For those who don't know this influential sludge/hardcore band from California, the content of this compilation might be good enough to understand why this band is considered a classic within the genre, which also has ties with Graves at Sea (via their female drummer, Chiyo Nukaga). Pessimism, Isolation and Star Wars lyrics (featured in some movie samples) were their most familiar traits, along with a stripped out, low-endy riffing that puts them along the heaviest of the genre.

Download it here: [V0]

Currently unavailable.

[2003] Toadliquor - The Hortator's Lament

2011-04-30T13:41:00.000-04:30

Toadliquor is one of the many influential sludge bands of the late decade, whose slow, devastating sound with drowned, hardcore vocals gave them a special place among the big acts from the beginning of the 00's. Having released only two official albums (Hortator's Lament being their last, and also the compilation of all their previous songs), they garnered instant cult status during Southern Lord's golden era. Easily one of my most inspiring, favorite bands.
Influential material, and recommended for whoever wants a good start in both doom and sludge metal.

Download it here: [V2][V0]

Buy it directly from Southern Lord here.

[2000] Melancholy Pessimism - Evil Planet

2011-04-30T13:15:00.001-04:30

Once again, the czech fail to disappoint me. With bands in the vein of !T.O.O.H.! and Lykathea Aflame in that scene, it's evident they're experts in what concerns to technical death metal with a strong experimental side. Melancholy Pessimism follows that lineage, but also mixes disparate music genres like jazz and even hip-hop in their fast, technical grind, while retaining the humor that characterizes czech death metal bands. One of their best albums, and also the most experimental of their career.

Download it here: [320][V0] Updated!

Currently unavailable.

[1976] Art Zoyd - Symphonie pour le Jour où Brûleront les Cités (2008 Reissue)

2011-04-28T00:06:00.001-04:30

One of the few still existing bands that formed part of the legendary Rock In Opposition movement, which also managed to remain somewhat fresh after all these decades. Art Zoyd's debut already shows some of the traits characterizing bands like Magma and Univers Zéro: dark, gospel-like choruses, with a prominent strings section (mostly heard in Univers Zéro) and a strong jazz influence. While it's not as noticeable in this album (their first), it shows some of the dark ambient leaning that will later give them relevance within the french scene.
Comparatively speaking, Univers Zéro and Art Zoyd share plenty of traits, although the former delved more into avant-prog rock than the latter, which focused mostly on electronic arrangements. As with the other members of the Rock In Opposition original lineup, it'd be a sin to overlook.

Download it here: [V0][FLAC Part 1 Part 2] Updated!

Currently unavailable.

[2003] Supersilent - 6

2011-04-27T23:23:00.000-04:30

Picking up where it left off, 6 retains some of the minimalistic style introduced in 5, but this time the electronic contributions of Helge Sten and Arve Henriksen's slow, sultry trumpet take over and gives the album a very melancholic, reflexive mood. It constantly toys with off-putting, bizarre synth melodies, overlapping and enhancing the dark atmosphere.

Download it here: [V0][FLAC]

Buy it directly from Rune Grammofon here.

[REQUEST] [2006] Walter &Sabrina - Chioma SuperNormal: The Dark Album

2011-04-25T13:07:00.001-04:30

I haven't actually listened to this yet, but I might get around to it today. I'm not fully familiar with the projects associated to AMM as it's something I have on my to-do list. For whoever requested it, enjoy.
--
And after listening to this, I can certify it's really good stuff. A bizarre form of art-pop, involving electronic manipulation and contemporary classical in big doses, paired with sarcastic, dark humored lyrics.

"This uniform dull plodder,
This Sodden Strangler.
All hail little man, into average stagger marching.
Feeling social inferiority."

~ The Sodden Stranger

Download it here: [256 Part 1 Part 2][V0]

Buy it directly from Danny Dark Records here.

[2001] Supersilent - 5

2011-04-22T14:55:00.000-04:30

Another radical change of pace in their style, this release is very minimal in style. While there's several free jazz bursts that rise from the almost quiet delivery (in an excellent display of dynamics), this album requires a lot of attention since it keeps itself low key, consisting mostly on lengthy brass notes and short electronic bursts, even more prominent here than in 4.

Download it here: [V0][FLAC]

Buy it directly from Rune Grammofon here.

[2011] The Skull Defekts - Peer Amid

2011-04-22T13:54:00.000-04:30

Dark, psychedelic rock with some tribal elements, and a healthy dose of noise rock, it's what the new The Skull Defekts is all about. Less out there and more traditional than some of their previous material, this is the rockiest side of the band, still retaining some of the abrasive noise/drone experimentation the fans of the band are already familiar with. I'd say it's a really solid release, if anything is less "out there" than their previous releases but it doesn't take away the best of the band.
This is the vinyl edition, which includes an extra song called Hidden Hymn.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Buy it directly from Thrill Jockey Records here.

[1998] Supersilent - 4

2011-04-20T14:01:00.000-04:30

Follow up of the 1-3 album which compiled 3 CD's into one (half live, half studio), 4 is an entirely studio album, single CD, which combines the free jazz output displayed on their first album with strong electronic elements and even vocalizations (by Henriksen), making it very different from their preceding release.

Download it here: [V0][FLAC]

Buy it directly from Rune Grammofon here.

[2008] The Skull Defekts - The Drone Drug

2011-04-20T03:18:00.000-04:30

With an almost unapproachable output that hardly resembles their apparent influences (Wire, Can and a few others), The Skull Defekts' trance-inducing noise/post-punk is left behind in favor of relentless feedback noise, manipulated as abrasive electronic drone, that might have more in common with Yellow Swans than bands akin to Earth or Sunn O))). Worth giving a listen.

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Release The Bats here.

[1987] AMM - The Inexhaustible Document (Reissue 1994)

2011-04-20T03:02:00.001-04:30

Very few albums from back in those days get close to what AMM engineered during the recording of this album: tense, minimal improvisations which explored and exerted the slow building mindset of the ensemble, while managing to retain a feebly kept attention from the listener due to its length.
This reissue in particular has an expanded version of the track Page 9:2 with material recorded during the same period, and considerably less minimal than the original version track.

Download it here: [V0][FLAC Part 1 Part 2] Updated!

Buy it directly from Matchless Recordings here.

[2006] Circle - Miljard

2011-04-19T18:59:00.001-04:30

Very unlike most of their back catalog, Miljard is Circle's most obvious ambient album, which still has a few motorik tingles, but it's mostly slow and drawn out. If you enjoy that side of them or if you're a fan of low key, guitar-oriented post-rock, you might enjoy this album. Personally I think it's good (in a complete different direction), 2CD's full of great ambient music which the short bursts of intensity the band is known for.

Download it here: [320: Part 1 Part 2][V0]

Buy it directly from Ektro Records here.

[2011] Masami Akita, Mats Gustafsson & Jim O'Rourke - One Bird Two Bird

2011-04-19T18:46:00.000-04:30

One of the most interesting releases in which Jim O'Rourke participates this year (the other would be the Ambarchi/O'Rourke/Haino followup of Tima Formosa), One Bird Two Bird is one of the best collabs I've listened in quite a while. I can quite see why Masami Akita is credited with his real name and not his usual monicker (Merzbow), considering his contributions are actually low key and in tune with the building improvisations as the album progresses, of which O'Rourke and Gustafsson (The Thing) are mainly responsible for (and as far of the latter goes, his sax goes crazy on Two Bird, the most awe-inducing track of this album). Without a doubt, the most intense free improv collab I've heard this year so far.

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Editions Mego here.

[1998] Supersilent - 1-3

2011-04-19T18:07:00.000-04:30

About time I posted Supersilent over here... And I'll try to post all their discography, chronologically.
This is the first release via Rune Grammofon of the collective conformed by Arve Henriksen (Food, Christian Wallumrød Ensemble), Ståle Storløkken and Helge Sten (Deathprod, Merriwinkle). 3 CDs of their very first material, full of unpredictable structures and almost no common melodies through live improvisation; part of instrumentation used for this album (and the ones following next) can be tell apart, but mostly it's a mix of timbres barely recognizable, reminding most of what AMM did many decades ago in a similar vein.
This album alone is a classic of the band, and a perfect start in the modern conception of free improvisation.

Download it here: [V0: Part 1 Part 2][FLAC]

Buy it directly from Rune Grammofon here.

[2008] Spunk - En Aldeles Forferdelig Sykdom

2011-04-19T17:43:00.000-04:30

The darkest Spunk album, and pretty much in line with their preceding release Den øverste Toppen På en Blåmalt Flaggstang, it brings most of the bizarre elements of the group by straining as much as possible their instruments capabilities and delivering a somewhat offputting (yet entrancing) atmosphere. Their most cohesive work.

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Rune Grammofon here.

[2009] The Thing - Bag It!

2011-04-15T11:20:00.001-04:30

Produced by Steve Albini, this is the latest The Thing album (by themselves), and the trio shows they're still good to go. Just as intense as their very first albums, this one is their most stripped down effort, sounding more like a live show recording in a cafe, with an intensity enough to incite dancing instead of anxiety.

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Robot here.

[1989] AMM - AMMMusic 1966

2011-04-15T11:00:00.000-04:30

Reissue by Recommended Records from the original 1967 release, which consists on at least 30min extra of free improvisation. Essential material of one of the earliest free improv bands in the history of the style, which borrowed heavily from the jazz basic structure and experimented with electronic equipment, particularly transistor radios.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Buy it directly from ReR Megacorp here.

[2011] Circle - Infektio

2011-04-15T09:59:00.000-04:30

The latest Circle album, which steps away from the intensity Rautatie had and went into full psychedelic rock with some drawn out, ambient parts. It feels shorter than its predecessor, but it compensates it with the strong tribal vibe and the kosmische synths. Definitely, great material.

Download it here: [V2][V0]

Buy it directly from Conspiracy Records here.

Roadburn Festival 2011: Selected Bands

2011-04-13T23:37:00.001-04:30

I've been doing it for a while, but didn't really keep up, so...
To commemorate Roadburn 2011, I'm going to post a good amount of bands and albums relevant to this festival. The guys from Sunn O))) put together an amazing lineup this year, and I thought Tom Warrior's was already perfect as it was. So since tomorrow (or practically today, considering the time difference) the festival will start, it's going to be a good opportunity for us who couldn't make it to check out some of the amazing bands in there.

Check the label Roadburn Festival under Collections.

And if you want to check the bands and their running order, click here.

[2011] Grouper - A I A : Dream Loss

2011-04-12T00:25:00.000-04:30

This is the second part of the latest 2xCD release by Grouper. Dream Loss starts on a similar way Alien Observer ended, with a slow, haunting note that will serve as an intro, before kicking in with a slow strummed guitar and drowned vocals akin to her previous album, less dark and more provocative and haunting.
Both discs complement each other nicely. Playing them together (which seems to be the main purpose) will create a really dense atmosphere, typical of her live shows. Awesome comeback album, 3 years waiting for something like this and Grouper delivered. Recommended for 2011.

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Boomkat here.

[2011] Grouper - A I A : Alien Observer

2011-04-11T23:31:00.000-04:30

This is the first part of Grouper's (Liz Harris' monicker) first double CD and latest release 3 years after Dragging A Deer Up A Hill, her most famous work. Both CD's complement each other, this one heavily on the dark ambient side. The electronic elements make the manipulated guitar to be almost indiscernible, and instead drowned along with the vocals, giving it the unique ethereal style we're familiar with. Similar in vein to her earlier albums, with a stronger emphasis in the atmosphere and less in the guitar instrumentation.

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Boomkat here.

[2011] Whitehorse - Progression

2011-04-09T00:16:00.001-04:30

Featuring Rob Mayson from Grey Daturas on drums, the new Whitehorse album is a departure from the live sound that characterizes them to a "cleaner", studio-produced sound, but it doesn't affect their output in the slightest, aside from making the songs less sloppy and well structured. It's a short album so the difference between this and their s/t will be highly noticeable, but it hardly makes an impact on the overall listening experience. Main highlight: Remains Unknown.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Contact Sweat Lung Records here, for purchase info.

Utech Records Music Festival 2011

2011-04-06T14:44:00.001-04:30

This summer in the state of Wisconsin, Utech Records (label whose releases I'm a faithful follower) will hold its first curated festival, in which 11 of their US-based bands and artists will perform a unique show, and some of the best underground music will be showcased. The label is also offering a sample for those not familiar with the bands that will perform (check the link below); so far the names included are the following: James Plotkin, Ural Umbo, Mamiffer, House of Low Culture, Horseback, GOG, Locrian, ITHI and Willian Fowler Collins. If you're in the area, you can't afford to miss this!

This festival is scheduled by June 11 at the Cactus Club, in Milwukee, Wisconsin.

More information about this Festival here.

[2008] Moloch - Moloch

2011-04-06T09:38:00.000-04:30

Wild feedback assaults and menacing, dragging riffs not too unlike Eyehategod and Iron Monkey, since their demo, Moloch has proved itself to be one of the finest gems of the british underground. A band that has also toured extensively through the United States with Thou and released a split with them, it begs for a full length release, since this 25min EP and the few splits fall short. One of my big favorite bands of the last 2 years, has nailed down the heavy, relentless sound that good sludge should have.

Download it here: [256][V0]

No direct purchases from the label available yet.

[2007] Smegma - Nattering Naybobs of Negativity

2011-04-05T23:42:00.000-04:30

Nattering Naybobs of Negativity is one of the most representative albums (aside from their debut, Glamour Girl 1941) of this band, which has influenced several experimental and improvisational acts during 4 decades, including (but not limited to) projects related to Stapleton in general, and many others with improvisational backgrounds. And indeed, its extensive use of sample manipulation and bizarre free jazz and tape looping predates plenty of artists from back then, without sounding dated or less out there than late, well known projects. In this album the Zappa influence is quite evident, with its cartoonish samples and crazed ramblings with the pervert humor present in Uncle Meat, but instead of delving further into progressive rock, it loses itself in a free jazz craze, which fits the style nicely.

This is a 2007 reissue of the original 1987 release, which includes Morass (cassette), released a year later.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Buy it directly from Forced Exposure here.

[2011] Ulver - Wars of The Roses

2011-04-04T14:11:00.000-04:30

Practically a month after the short article I wrote about the upcoming Ulver album, I've finally listened to it and arrived to my own conclusions regarding this new album. Unsurprisingly, Wars of The Roses didn't fail to deliver. Placing it one step ahead of their previous effort Shadows of The Sun, most of the expectations raised by the gathered lineup were fulfilled, particularly speaking of Daniel O'Sullivan's keyboards, Steve Noble's drumming in Norwegian Gothic and Stone Angels, and Stian Westerhus' guitar manipulation in more than half of the album.
Those aren't the only highlights of this album, which had a solid vocal work in Providence: aside from Garm's mid falsetto, Siri Stranger complemented the song with her voice (giving the song a soothing tone after the tense mood Garm sets), while Attila Csihar growled in the background near the end. However, my big favorite song is Stone Angels, in which Daniel O'Sullivan recited poetry in a way not too unlike David Tibet with his project Current 93, and made me wonder if one day he'll relieve Garm from the vocals in the band, since he seems to fit the role quite well.

All in all I consider it one of my main choices for a favorite album of the year, and proves that 4 years didn't pass in vain.

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Kscope here.

[2004] Grey Daturas - Dead In The Woods

2011-04-03T01:17:00.000-04:30

This is one of the bands I consider one of my main influences to explore and compose music on my own, which could've had a full decade of existence in 2012 if they hadn't disbanded in early 2010. Grey Daturas was an australian collective of improvisers, with influences ranging from Sonic Youth, Black Sabbath, Can and many others, which in turn gave the band an eclectic style. Of course being an improvisational group meant that none of their songs were neither rehearsed nor repeated, and well rooted into the heaviest noise rock with doom metal hints, and even in some cases, drone-doom (in the vein of Earth), as seen in the Yellow Swans collab which was well received by many music critics.
Grey Daturas broke up but it resurfaced shortly as the duo known as Breathing Shrine, with Bonnie Mercer (guitar) and Rob Mayson (drums), and keeping with the heavy live output that made them famous.

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Breathing Shrine/Grey Daturas official site here.

[1977] John Greaves, Peter Blegvad, Lisa Herman - Kew. Rhone.

2011-04-02T23:11:00.000-04:30

One of the many gems from the Canterbury Scene, Kew Rhone is the resulting work of three important figures from that time, whose combined experience gave birth to an album strongly hinting at Slapp Happy's art pop vibe and what would later become Art Bears, with a remarkable jazz influence typical of the scene. Joyous and mysterious at the same time, the album is plagued with occult references and hidden clues not only in the lyrics but also in the cover, on which several clues are denoted with roman numerals and paired together with some phrases within the songs. Definitely, anyone with at least a mild interest in the 70's british prog scene should check this excellent album.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Buy it from Amazon here.

[2010] No Balls - Less

2011-04-02T00:48:00.000-04:30

Another gem from Streaks Records, but in this case it's explicitly related to hardcore. With some sexual undertones, No Balls gives off some of the no-wave vibe from Teenage Jesus and Glenn Branca's post-punk works to the heavy, relentless hardcore, which, far from disappoint, gives off a great impression at the very first listen. Most songs are, unfortunately, instrumental, but that doesn't give away its overbearing vibe.

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Streak Records here (scroll down).

[2001] The Thing - The Thing

2011-03-31T10:09:00.000-04:30

Weirdly enough, this is the first Swedish band I ever post on my blog...
This is the unofficial first release of the trio that will later be known as The Thing, formed by Mat Gustafsson (sax), Ingebrigt Håker Flaten (bass, double bass), and the prolific drummer Paal Nilssen-Love (drums). A very intense debut, released under Mat Gustafsson's label, Crazy Wisdom (now defunct), which features one of the most energetic deliveries from Gustafsson in the sax (highly prominent throughout the whole album). Definitely a good start with a band that later featured collaborations with famous musicians such as John McPhee and Jim O'Rourke, denoting their strong improvising vein in each one of these.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Currently unavailable.

[2009] Orchestre National de Jazz - Around Robert Wyatt

2011-03-30T23:55:00.000-04:30

A very interesting release, which gathers plenty of classic compositions from popular albums in which Robert Wyatt (such an inspiring figure of the canterbury prog scene of the 70's and beyond) contributed and took part of, ranging from his solo albums, the Blegvad/Greaves/Herman collab known as Kew Rhone, to Matching Mole and many others, reinterpreted by the Orchestre National de Jazz, and even with his own participation in a good part of them. Without losing a bit of their original quality, the songs are embellished with noteworthy contributions, such as Rokia Taoré's soul-influenced vocals, full of warmth and innocence, or Yael Naim's folky vibe, giving it a kind, retro feel to Wyatt's compositions.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Buy it directly from Abeille Musique here.

[2011] Thymolphthalein - Ni Maître, Ni Marteau

2011-03-30T23:17:00.000-04:30

A somewhat unlikely ensemble coming from France and Australia, delivering a rhythmically complex sonic assault, revolving around electro-acoustic improvisation and electronic, self-made instruments to create tones hard to identify among the spastic array of fractured sounds. Surprising debut, recorded and performed live at the SWR2 New Jazz Meeting in France, 2009.

(meant to be played loud given its extreme frequency range, which perhaps could be benefited from a higher bitrate)

Download it here: [192][V0]

Buy it directly from Editions Mego here.

[2009] The Low Frequency In Stereo - Futuro

2011-03-22T18:39:00.000-04:30

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

2011-03-22T18:17:00.000-04:30

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

2011-03-22T17:13:00.000-04:30

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

2011-03-22T16:59:00.000-04:30

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!

2011-03-22T10:31:00.000-04:30

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

2011-03-22T09:01:00.000-04:30

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.

[2009] Laudanum - The Coronation

2011-03-18T15:51:00.000-04:30

Hateful sludge/noise from Cali, comprised by members of Asunder and Graves At Sea, with an unusual approach, relying a lot in minimal outbursts of feedback and background noise combined with heavy, mid-paced sections of the best hardcore-laced doom the genre can offer. Two vocalists constantly swap parts in the songs, varying from high shrieks to deep grunts, but allowing the lyrics to be clearly heard.

Download it here: [V2][V0]

Buy it directly from 20 Buck Spin Records here.

[2007] Whitehorse - Whitehorse

2011-03-18T14:36:00.000-04:30

Released under the Olympia-based record label 20 Buck Spin Records, this s/t is one of the few studio releases of this band since their formation, even though they've released a series of live albums before, which makes them more of a live act. It's not surprising seeing as their heavy, merciless sound in total disregard of duration is a sign of the huge focus on live atmosphere they have. Slow building structures, yet elaborate since the start (don't expect a post-rockish approach to doom metal, so common and tiresome these days), rage-fueled hardcore vocals and chaotic guitar noise are the main highlights here. They've performed with plenty of well-known bands of their genre, along with other excellent australian acts such as Dad They Broke Me and Teargas.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Buy it directly from 20 Buck Spin Records here.

[2007] The Stargazer's Assistant - The Other Side of The Island

2011-03-18T00:32:00.000-04:30

The Stargazer's Assistant is a collective fronted by David J Smith and conformed by Daniel O'Sullivan (Ulver, Mothlite) and Antti Uusimaki (also from Mothlite), whose deeply layered soundscapes seek to evoke the ever-changing geological structure of the Earth, decaying and resurfacing every new era. Amazingly diverse material ranging from vocal arrangements to sparse percussion, this album is a truly entrancing piece of work, way beyond run-of-the-mill ambient music, and a display of the rich, organic compositions O'Sullivan and Uusumaki are capable of, also heard in Mothlite.

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Aurora Borealis here (scroll down).

[2009] Gregg Kowalsky - Tape Chants

2011-03-13T00:38:00.001-04:30

While the previous efforts relied in purely electronic chain arrangements, Tape Chants was recorded incorporating tapes with specific tones, tuned and mixed to each other, placed in several locations within a room. The resulting effect, which is later arranged with oscillators to give a sense of rhythm, is one of the most interesting drone recordings I've had the chance of listening. Some other percussive instruments were used albeit subtly, to avoid disrupting the overbearing feeling infused by the oscillating drones.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Buy it directly from Kranky Records here.

[2001] Food - Organic & GM Food

2011-03-12T23:54:00.000-04:30

Less out there than their late works, Organic & GM Food, while more conventional, is still worth mentioning due to how prominent the sax in here is, compared to their late works. Still amazing stuff to be had, particularly because of the songs Ian Ballamy (sax) composed for this album, aprticularly Chef's Special and Arve's Part (an obvious homage).

Download it here: [320][V0]

Sold out in Feral Records.

[2011] Grayceon - All We Destroy

2011-03-12T23:16:00.000-04:30

After 3 years of This Grand Show and during a period where we didn't really know if the band was going to release new material, All We Destroy comes and surprises us with a more intense, rougher delivery, a nice departure from the softer, melancholic style of This Grand Show. Along with their trademark style we get a very upbeat rhythm throughout the whole album, still allowing the omnipresent cello to have its own space within the songs. Great album, which hopefully won't get under the rug, since it's excellent, grows on me at every new listen.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Buy it directly from Profound Lore here.

[2009] Hotel Belvedere - Tomorrow

2011-03-11T00:12:00.000-04:30

In the same instrumental rock and ambient vein of bands like Grails, Tim Hecker and Machinefabriek, Hotel Belvedere (a british solo project) goes for a similar approach by using mostly tape loops and minimal guitar chord arrangements to create a soft, cinematic feel with his music. Most of the electronic elements in this album (particularly the use of looped samples) and rock arrangements are kept under the same overall tone, so every song is almost a continuation of the previous, perfect for full album listens.
I should also mention that for an extremely underground musician, the mixing is really good (which I rarely hear nowadays), and it means there was a sensible production behind this album.

Download and support the band here.

[2011] Miracle - Fluid Window

2011-03-10T10:14:00.001-04:30

This is the debut EP of the new project between Daniel O'Sullivan (Guapo, Ulver, Mothlite) and Steve Moore (Zombi), which could be described as a heavy 80's psychedelic trip, drenched in a strong aura borrowed (but not directly addressed) from the 70's kosmische scene. The ethereal vocals present here are no surprise at all considering Mothlite's arrangements, but aside from the obvious pop style, there's still space for experimentation like in songs such as Wild Nights, relying mostly in strong sample layering. Catchy and sexy, just as many other bands and artists of that era, brought to 2011 as a reinterpretation rather than a revival intent.
Give it a full listen below, and preorder it using the link provided.

Miracle - Fluid Window by houseanxiety

Download it here: [256][V0] Updated!

Preorder via House Anxiety here.

[2007] The Austerity Program - Black Madonna

2011-03-09T09:09:00.000-04:30

With obvious nods to artists and bands like Shellac and Glenn Branca (specially the former), The Austerity Program still manages to distance themselves from both projects by creating a less dense, energetic series of (mostly) instrumental songs with a strictly followed sense of dynamics and bizarre rhythm. Nothing much else can be said about this project aside that, as a duo, the resulting product is worth paying attention to.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Buy it directly from Hydra Head Records here.

[2011] Blood Ceremony - Living With The Ancients

2011-03-08T01:45:00.001-04:30

3 years after their amazing self-titled album, Blood Ceremoony's sound has definitely matured and dwelved into heavier territories. Their Jethro Tull-influenced style brought by Alia O'Brien's amazing flute now is toned down a bit to allow the heavy doom metal riffing to fully shine, while her vocals display more personality and range than they used to, specially in Night of Augury, in which the occult, 70's psychedelic vibe is accentuated at great extents. The real highlight of the album is, however, Daughter of The Sun, in which guitars, synths and flute go into a psychedelic wormhole, the perfect closure for this release, that could be considered well ahead their self-titled.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Buy it directly from All That Is Heavy here.

Yet another Ulver announcement: 'Wars Of The Roses' coming out in April

2011-03-05T14:14:00.002-04:30

It turns out the wolf pack will be extra busy this year, judging by the two confirmed releases that will see the light in next months and the extensive touring they'll embark into, on several European locations. I still have yet to hear any words regarding their collab with Sunn O))) and cover albums like Psyche, but so far I can say it's all shaping up nicely for Ulver.

"With a long standing reputation for being unpredictable and unafraid of radical departures, the most subversive aspect this time is perhaps the band's increased accessibility; even touching on the polished sensibilities of pop and rock."

Personally I can't wait to hear how Daniel O'Sullivan's contributions will be like, although the crew gathered for this album is worth mentioning: Stian Westerhus (which I've mentioned before on this blog), Steve Noble (also a member of Æthenor), Alex Ward, John Fryer (well known producer involved with several remarkable bands) and Stephen Thrower from Coil, band that could've directly indirectly influenced Ulver's first dabblings into electronic and experimental music. "They all play important parts on the album, their instant instincts perfectly aligned with Ulver's composed compassion. The familiar baroque menagerie of piano, wood and wind sit alongside the machines and the ghosts within", says Ulver on their official statement.

Read the full press release here.
Check the album review here. Updated!

[2010] Antediluvian - Watcher's Reign

2011-03-05T02:07:00.000-04:30

Sometimes it happens that a band in particular doesn't impress you at a first listen and you put it away, ignoring most of what it had to offer among the disagreeable parts. Lack of ear training, and even too much experience listening to music does that.
That's kind of what happened with me and this band at first, it disgusted me in a way that I had to put it off at the second song or something like that, which would seem rather strange considering I've listened to plenty of death and black metal in the past. But the thing is that this band is indeed disgusting, just not the way it seemed at a first listen; I gave it another try, focusing on the instrumentation and the way the vocals were delivered, and I heard something really interesting, the raw primal impetus, the living nightmare of the vocal delivery, and the merciless guitarwork, it was all there and I didn't notice it because of the way it all was presented, a single slab of furious prehistoric ramblings.
Direct nods could be made to a band like Portal, but the vocals are dirtier than The Curator's, and it's not hazy like in Outre, but rather disjointed, yet distinguishable enough to be told apart. Reminds me more of a local band from my country called Verminous, which had a similar delivery back in the 2000s, and it made the same impression on me, being completely clueless towards this genre back then.

Definitely a keeper, and worthy of several listens, when its real value gets truly unearthed.

Download it here: [V2][V0]

Buy it directly from Invictus Productions here.

[2011] Shroud Eater - Thundernoise

2011-03-05T01:48:00.000-04:30

First full-length of this Florida-based independent band,consisting of two female guitar and bass players (Jean Saiz and JeanetteValentine, respectively) and a male drummer (Felipe Torres), delivering an intense mix of fast, heavy riffing (which hardly resembles some of the most obvious examples within the genre) with a mid-paced, energetic drumming, punishing the eardrums with its fierce delivery. The vocals are midway between coarse and clean, with a few harsh moments that don't disappoint. Amazing material, and easily one of the most noteworthy independent acts I've seen around lately.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Buy it directly from Bandcamp here.

[2011] Stephen O'Malley & Atsuo - Uroborus Circuit

2011-03-05T00:32:00.001-04:30

Recorded back in 2006 during that whole period in which Boris and Sunn O))) were also recording Altar, Uroborus Circuit is definitely not what I'd expect from a collaboration between these two musicians. First of all it doesn't have any instruments, which throws out of the window the idea that Atsuo might've contributed drums here; it also doesn't have any sort of recognizable structure aside from the tones overlapping here and there. This is very minimal, consisting on feedback manipulation, hardly resembling guitar feedback due to its subtle, harsh tone, not too different from O'Malley's later works in Table of Elements (Keep An Eye Out).

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Inoxia Records here.

[2008] Joe Preston And Daniel Menche - Cerberic Doxology

2011-03-03T17:36:00.001-04:30

Trance-inducing drone/dark ambient from two experts in the subject. Joe Preston in one hand, main pioneer of the drone-doom scene (back when Melvins was churning out really slow, heavy stuff, and at the very beginnings of Earth), sole member of Thrones, and early collaborator of Sunn O))) for two of the best albums that band has ever released (the White sessions) and the Oracle EP. And Daniel Menche (also from Oregon), a prominent noise/dark ambient artist who has collaborated with several musicians related to the experimental scene, highly prolific on his own as well.
The two of them provide vocals for this bizarre album consisting on a single 20min track, whose layers constantly intertwine and blur along with the subtle droning soundscape. This intonation could seem slightly similar to Sunn O)))'s Decay[NIHIL'S MAW] and Decay2 [The Symptoms of Kali Yuga], or Sunn O))) & Altar's Akuma no Kuma (he actually provided vocals for this one), except there's barely any other instruments aside from the droning vocalizations. Quite an intriguing album, reminding of primal landscapes and massive prehistoric monuments of unknown meaning.

Download it here [320][V0]

Buy it directly from Anthem Records here.

[1995] Ved Buens Ende - Written In Waters...

2011-03-02T09:09:00.000-04:30

Combining the aesthetics and driving force behind the 2nd Wave of Norwegian BM with the innovation and progressive touch of the canterbury scene/rock in opposition of the 70's/80's, Ved Buens Ende singlehandedly inspired countless of progressive metal bands with an experimental edge that came decades earlier, with a style that isn't even overtly technical, but rather full of nuances and expressive methods that became their trademark sound.

One of the most important albums for me, it changed the way I perceived music as a whole, and even until today I consider it unique as it is.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Buy it directly from Candlelight Records here.

[2011] Boris with Merzbow - Klatter

2011-02-27T22:41:00.001-04:30

Formerly known as Mellow Peak and due to be released years ago, it's the latest original collab between Boris and Merzbow since Sun Baked Snow Cave. Musically speaking it's closer to the original material in Rock Dream (the noisiest jams present on the first disc) and the best moments out of classic albums like Feedbacker, with the buzzed out solos and heavy, reverberated riffiing. Even though it has the least drone-oriented material they've released with Merzbow (which isn't a bad thing at all) it just shows they're capable of taking the best of their rock-oriented material and level it to heavier grounds.

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Daymare Recordings here (recommend using Google Translate).

[2011] Norska - Norska

2011-02-27T17:19:00.000-04:30

Very impressive debut from this american band, originary from Oregon. While it does have some clear sludge elements (particularly the hardcore vocals and the somewhat obvious hooks, akin to Neurosis' mid career), most of the songs are comprised of complex riffing with a vibe not too different from the style bands like Virus and Ved Buens Ende carried out. The production is not the best here, but considering they're independent, it seems good enough. Really good material, it looks like Norska will be one of these bands giving us something to talk about during the next years.

Download it here: [192][V0]

Buy it directly from their Bandcamp here.

[2011] Gareth Davies & Machinefabriek - Grower

2011-02-26T01:46:00.001-04:30

Gareth Davis teamed up with Machinefabriek (both originary from Netherlands) again after last year's release, Drape, to further expand on the subtle ambient created by Machinefabriek, contributing his eclectic clarinet sound. This album is one of the most interesting ambient albums I've heard, specially due to Davis' contributions, his clarinet has a wide range that goes in par with Machinefabriek's field recording manipulations.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Buy it directly from Sonic Pieces here.

[2006] Khlyst - Chaos Is My Name

2011-02-23T00:26:00.000-04:30

For what it seemed to be a one-off recording (although confirmation is still needed), Khlyst is a twisted reminiscence of Khanate's Things Viral era with a strong free jazz/noise vibe, an absolute portrayal of insanity. Tim Wyskida, James Plotkin and Runhild Gammelsæter, two parts Khanate and one part Thorr's Hammer, are the ones behind this bizarre recording, which touches upon the darkest places of the mind. Wyskida's percussion really adds up a lot to the atmosphere, from his arrythmical drumming during every odd song, to his sparse crash and gong on every even song. The same could be said about Plotkin, a veteran in dark ambient and guitar/bass mindfuckery.

Stephen Kasner (Utech Records) did the artwork

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Hydra Head Records here.

[2003] Neurosis & Jarboe - Neurosis & Jarboe

2011-02-23T00:16:00.000-04:30

The closest it'd get for Neurosis to collaborate with Swans (although, who knows?), Neurosis & Jarboe is an unique album among their discography, which focuses on their mainly experimental side that was a result of their Swans influence, aided by Jarboe's famous vocal style. Only until the last song (Seizure) we get to hear Scott and Steve's melancholic grunts, but through most of the album we have Jarboe exerting her full vocal range with shrieks, moans, screams and delirious frenzy, while Neurosis performs their doom/tribal kinda style (heard in some of the songs from A Sun That Never Sets) with plenty of noise and synths experimentation. The only music akin to this album is either one of Jarboe's solo album, or Swans' earlier career, with Jarboe instead of Gira. Absolutely essential material.

Download it here: [320][V0]

Buy it directly from Neurot Recordings here.

[2003] Sidsel Endresen & Christian Wallumrød & Helge Sten - Merriwinkle

2011-02-23T00:04:00.000-04:30

Collaboration between one of the figureheads of the current norwegian jazz scene, Christian Wallumrød (Christian Wallumrød Ensemble, Close Erase), Sidsel Endresen and Helge Sten (Deathprod's real name) in a free improvisation album with no lyrics, no sheets, no prior arrangements, but full of rich melodies and complex, unpredictable changes.Sidsel Endresen does a great job improvising vocals on the spot, making it seem as if she had been reciting, when it was a case of stream of consciousness. Christian and Helge /Deathprod took care of the synths and electronic arrangements respectively, giving the album an spastic feel.

Download it here: [V0]

Buy it directly from Jazzland Recordings here.

[2011] Æthenor - En Form For Blå

2011-02-22T23:39:00.000-04:30

What was already shaping up on Faking Gold and Murder as a free improv/dark ambient ensemble comes in full force in En Form For Blå, with an added touch of abstraction. O'Malley, Noble, O'Sullivan and Rygg teamed up again in Norway to record this album which heavily hints to the norwegian avant-jazz/experimental scene, which is acknowledged in the linear notes. The guitars and synth improvisation has much more focus than in previous albums, in which it was kept low key to emphasize on the field recordings and vocalizations (in the case of Faking Gold and Murder).

Download it here: [320][V0]

Buy it directly from Boomkat here.

[REQUEST] [2008] Asva - Live In London, September 8, 2005

2011-02-14T10:15:00.001-04:30

Latest (live) release of the most innovative drone-doom metal band of the recent times, Live In London,... is a recording of a show back in 2005, in which they performed the first song off Futurists Against The Ocean (Kill The Dog, Tie Them Up, And Take The Money) and the well-known song A Trap For Judges. Single song, 50min long.

Download it here: [192][V0]

Tour only material, limited to 150 copies.