NIT "001" CS (self-released)
Some of the better power electronics I've heard recently from a newly-established project? I think so, yes. Cold, clean, sharp, and nicely-constructed synthesizer electronics that is both stylish and powerful against some quite beautiful feeback and static work, contrasted by some buried and effect-mangle vocals here and there. Very controlled and musical approach that manages a pretty desperate, wandering, and disturbed atmosphere. Really excellent stuff that doesn't immediately bring to mind comparisons (except maybe some more recent Control or Ramleh in their quieter moments); though this certainly has the potential of projects like Puce Mary or Iron Fist of The Sun in terms of a solid and unique approach. Totally recommended. Keep an eye on this one, if this is just the beginning, then I'm on board for whatever happens next.
Scatmother/Wonderland Club split CS (Obsessive Fundamental Realism)
Scatmother's tracks on A-side strike me as slightly odd, if only because they seem a little rougher and more lo-fi than what excerpts I've heard of both CDs. First piece is a wall-of-noise approach with enraged vocals, leading into some really nice stomach-churning feedback work and the same forceful vocal attack, sadly this track as well as the last doesn't maintain the momentum it begins with. Vocals, by the way, are a shouted American accent despite that I'm told this gentleman is a German. Third piece begins, and there isn't any vocal variation to look forward to, nor can I imagine the minimalism being expanded on too well. I'd probably need to hear the two CDs in entirety to judge the project fairly, as this doesn't really hold my attention with force. Disappointing, as the lyrics and semi-poetic sensibilities to them are very nice. By track 4, when rhythmic elements and more obvious layering are introduced, I'm more convienced of the project's worth, but the quiet and muddy sound makes for a more hopeful sense of appreciation.
I'll admit I heard the WC side of this tape before it was even released – maybe my judgement was clouded from having a hard-on for Wonderland Club already. Most folks reading have probably heard them already or heard the hype, which they very much live up to in quality of approach and...otherwise. Everything from the project sounds quite different from preceding recordings, though is always solid and highly composed stuff. Things here are both salacious and atmospheric, with the loud/quiet dynamic approach to song structure this time, and pitch-shifted, understated vocals that sometimes rise to the forefront. Lyrics partially by/on the subject of Wesley Allan Dodd; can't make out what's being said as easily as previous material, though.The duo approach to vocals and the thin, crisp static against the heavy pulsing and surging seems to be the only thing I can tie down as a signature for this group, other than consistent striving for variation, improvement, and thereby, serious songwriting.
Penetration Squadron "Rectal Assault" CS (Obsessive Fundamental Realism)
Well, depending on my mood, I could have wildly varying remarks on this tape. Either case, it's nothing adventurous, special, or even well-thought-out. At the moment, I enjoy the "teenage" goofy approach of weirdly pitch-shifted Ramleh/Whitehouse vocals and spare but well-executed feedback, although another day this might annoy the living shit out of me for those exact reasons. Frankly, I think the same could be said about my own project, but whatever. Second piece has an unexpected psychoactive sound to it reassuring me of the importance of variation in this kind of thing. File alongside Painted Woman, Unclean, Whiteswan, Maskhead, Psychosadist, et cetera...very firmly stuck in the "filth noise" ghetto, and appreciable for those who pay regular visits, but perhaps either more or less so if said ghetto's where you like to call home. For one, I wish the wailing, howling vocal style with the odd effects was a bit louder in the mix and handled a bit more carefully. B-grade attempt at best with no real suggestion of future improvement, considered song structure, or promise of variation. Although there are some beautiful moments of primitive feeback bliss, I do hope any future recordings showcase more effort than sheer enthusiasm – I strongly believe more can be done with bare-bones PE techniques than most usually explore. Nice booklet, for those who are still reading.
Plus Taskmaster/Wince split C40 (White Centipede Noise) though it's already been reviewed by Mikko, and it's wall-style harsh noise. It's love-or-hate, no point in hearing my opinion about it except that two projects I already like a great deal deliver 100%. Almost frustrating, as they succeed at doing what is in the case of one of my projects only an attempt. Lately also Electric Masada "At The Mountains of Madness" (John Zorn-led insane jazz-rock ensemble), lots of Creedence Clearwater Revival, live Velvet Underground (personally I like when they were just a regular old rock band with Doug Yule rather than the John Cale viola screech era and the insufferable Nico "what a klon" vocals), and a little Johnny Paycheck here and there, because I can't seem to quit drinking.
