Tag: Reviews

No.5235

GAJOOB Review by Bryan Baker:

“Apotheosis Pageant” by More Ephemerol, released May 12, 2023, harks back to the classic era of indie synthpop. The LA-based duo, C. Fjerstad and Tamara Sky, have created an album that marries vintage analog and digital instruments with modern production methods, resulting in a captivating sonic experience.

The ten-track album opens with “Colossi,” a pulsating tune that sets the tone for the rest of the album. This is followed by “Last Wave Calling,” a track that showcases the duo’s ability to create engaging melodies and catchy hooks.

“Glamour Victim” and “Song of Sceptre” continue the trend, offering listeners a blend of retro synthpop vibes and modern production techniques. “Fertile Energy,” the fifth track, stands out with its retro-tinged video, resonating with the spirit, power, and elegance of femininity.

The latter half of the album does not disappoint either. Tracks like “Cult Classics” and “Secrecy” further demonstrate More Ephemerol’s mastery of their craft.

What stands out about “Apotheosis Pageant” is the meticulous attention to detail. The album was mixed and produced by Matia Simovich at Infinite Power Studios in L.A., with Josh Bonati handling the mastering. The result is a polished, professional sound that enhances the overall listening experience.

More Ephemerol is a celebration of the enduring appeal of synthpop. With its catchy melodies, engaging hooks, and superb production values, this album is a must-listen for any fan of the genre.

Media: Vinyl, Digital.

The Yellow Diary, a quintet hailing from Mumbai, has been a stronghold in India’s indie rock scene for the better part of the last decade. With their pulsating pop tunes and heartfelt ballads, TYD has mastered the art of crowd engagement and emotional connectivity. Their long-awaited third EP, ‘Mann’, is no exception.

‘Mann’ is a three-track journey through the stages of a relationship, each song capturing a distinct emotion. It’s a concise yet impactful package that displays the band’s ability to create profound musical narratives.

I was struck by the band’s merging of jazz, lo-fi, power pop and EDM .

The opening track, “Mann”, is a nostalgic ode to the beginning of a relationship. Rajan Batra’s lyrics beautifully capture the couple’s reminiscence of their shared journey. The surprising piano part at the end, played by guitarist Harshvardhan Gadhvi, adds an unexpected twist to the song’s arrangement.

The second track, “Sada”, is a fan-favorite that has finally found its home on this EP. Originally recorded in 2016, the band decided to re-record it for ‘Mann’. The song’s essence remains the same— a testament to the guiding force of love in a relationship. The band’s decision to retain the song’s original spirit while refreshing its sound is commendable and shows their respect for their musical evolution.

Finally, “Kaun Mera” stands out for its unique approach. Originally written in 2018, the band chose not to re-record it, preserving the authentic emotions embedded in the song. This decision to respect the song’s original form shows their appreciation for their musical journey and growth.

In summary, ‘Mann’ is a beautifully crafted EP that takes listeners on an emotional rollercoaster. The Yellow Diary’s ability to deliver such a powerful narrative in just three songs is impressive, showcasing their skillful songwriting and deep understanding of human emotions.

The EP is a testament to The Yellow Diary’s evolution as a band, their ability to connect with their audience on a deeper level, and their respect for their musical journey. It’s a thrilling listen that leaves you eagerly anticipating what they’ll come up with next.

• Apple Music

No.5232

DOWNLOAD @ ARCHIVE.ORG

GAJOOB Review by Bryan Baker:

ToFuZaHo’s 1998 release, “All Points Forward,” is a standout selection in the ZH27 catalog. This album is a mesmerizing blend of analog and digital space synth work, coupled with a rich array of organic, acoustic sounds. ToFu is Tom Furgas and ZaHo is Zan Hoffman and there are a half dozen or more albums by the pair in the ZH27 library.

From the outset, the listener is swept away into a world where sound takes center stage. Tom’s expertise in space synth is evident in every track, creating a sonic landscape that is both enchanting and engaging.

The addition of meticulously gathered organic, acoustic sound sources adds a layer of depth and complexity to the album. These elements, born from a dream, infuse the music with a sense of authenticity and originality that sets it apart. The organism is alive.

The result is an album that feels like a journey through time and space, offering a unique perspective on the interplay between synth and acoustic sounds. It’s a testament to the power of creativity and the art of sound mixing. It’s an album that demands attention and rewards the listener with an immersive, captivating sonic experience.

Media: Digital.

No.5231

GAJOOB Review by Bryan Baker:

“Illusion of Safety” is no stranger to the experimental music scene. With a history spanning four decades, this Chicago-based project has consistently pushed the boundaries of electronic music. Their latest offering, “Pastoral,” set for release on December 10, 2023, is no exception.

From the outset, “Pastoral” offers an intriguing blend of organic and electronic sounds. Tracks like “Invulnerable” and “Neolithic” showcase the subtle interplay between Kurt Griesch and Daniel Burke’s post-1995 tour work, creating a sonic landscape that feels both familiar and alien.

“Thermogenesis” continues this trend, offering a more subdued presentation that creates a sense of open space. The use of Reaktor 5 VCS-3 software emulation in “Ground” adds another layer of complexity to the album, enhancing its experimental nature.

The final track, “Compelling,” aptly sums up the entire album. It’s a mesmerizing soundscape that transports the listener on an imaginary journey, showcasing Illusion of Safety’s ability to create music that is both thought-provoking and hypnotic.

“Pastoral” is more than just an album; it’s a testament to the enduring creativity of Illusion of Safety. Despite its roots in a demo sent in 2011, the album feels fresh and relevant, proving that good music truly is timeless.

It’s an album for those who appreciate experimental music that challenges the norms. Its blend of organic and electronic sounds creates a unique sonic experience that is sure to captivate any listener.

Media: CD, Digital.

Bandcamp URL: https://illusionofsafety.bandcamp.com/

No.5230

GAJOOB Review by Bryan Baker:

“Susnara-Clinger,” the 2022 release from Dan Susnara and Ken Clinger, is an intriguing collection that appears to encompass years of collaborative work. This album, while scant on specific details, offers a rich tapestry of diverse musical styles, all masterfully woven together through the talents of both artists.

From the outset, the listener is treated to Clinger’s lush synth and orchestral work, which provides a captivating backdrop for the album. His compositions, full of depth and intricacy, perfectly complement Susnara’s expert guitar phrasings.

Yet, the album doesn’t confine itself to these elements alone. Throughout its duration, “Susnara-Clinger” ventures into an array of styles, from collage to experimental electronic music. This diversity not only showcases the breadth of the artists’ musical expertise but also ensures that each track brings something new to the table. The album has a kind of flow through different times, I think.

The result is an album that feels like a journey through the musical minds of Susnara and Clinger. Each track, while distinct in its own right, contributes to the overall narrative of the album, painting a sonic picture that is both complex and engaging. It’s an album that demands attention. It’s a testament to the power of collaboration, showcasing the unique synergy that can arise when two talented artists join forces. For fans of both artists and of diverse music, this album is a must-listen.

Media: Digital.

Visit Bovine Productions

Bandcamp URL: https://kenclinger.bandcamp.com/album/susnara-clinger

No.5229

GAJOOB Review by Bryan Baker:

Russ Stedman’s “This Is Normal” is a musical journey that refuses to conform to the ordinary, making it anything but ‘normal.’ Released on June 10, 2022, this album is a testament to Stedman’s prowess as a musician, blending heavy guitar power with cathartic vocals.

From the opening track “Trauma,” Stedman creates a wall of bristling guitar sound that captures your attention and holds it throughout the album. His vocals, raw and emotive, are like a shout from a mountaintop (or from caged mind), adding layers of intensity to the music.

The album includes standout tracks like “Animals” and “Normal,” each showcasing Stedman’s ability to craft songs that are both powerful and engaging. “Bird Pecking” and “Real Eyes” continue this trend, offering ratcheting shifts in tone and strain that keep the tension tightening throughout, to the bitter, bitter end.

“Struggle” and “Calvin” delve deeper into the emotional landscape that Stedman is exploring, while “Hopeless” leaves you gasping and “F.Y.V.M.” is a rant on the BushBushTrump death spiral. The final track, “Today,” serves as a fitting conclusion. Its major-chord dressing a medicated future, at least for today.

Written, produced, and performed by Russ Stedman himself, “This Is Normal” was recorded at home between October 2021 and May 2022. It’s is a potent mix of heavy guitar and vocals that offers an immersive listening experience. It’s an album that deserves a place in the rotation of any fan of intense, emotive music.

Media: Digital.

Visit Stedmusic

Bandcamp URL: https://russstedman.bandcamp.com/album/this-is-normal

No.5228

Download Album HERE

GAJOOB Review by Bryan Baker:

“Waves of Seeing,” the debut album from ZĀM, is a daring exploration of improvised music that doesn’t shy away from pushing boundaries. Released on November 24, 2023, this album is a fusion of noise, rock, ambient, new age, glitch, drone, hardcore, sludge, psychedelic, electronica, and free music, creating an eclectic blend that’s both challenging and captivating.

The album begins with “Source,” a track that stirs a dormant beast, setting the tone for the rest of the album. It then segues into “Egress,” a powerful discordant cacophony of strings and percussive elements that catapults the listener into the heart of the album.

“Dellacatom Machine” stands out with its flirtation with analog electronics, rambling beats, and frenzied energy. It’s followed by “The Wind,” a heavy, lurching track that feels like a grindcore dungeon dive.

“Suppine” offers a brief respite, but it’s the kind that signals impending chaos. This chaos is realized in “Phototaxis,” a track that embraces madness with its frenetic electronics and dissonant static tinges.

“Power Strip” combines atmospheric synths with muffled percussion snippets and guttural formants, creating a soundscape that approaches the level of a didgeridoo. The album concludes with “Wanderlust,” a track that encapsulates the raw energy and experimental nature of the entire album.

The album was engineered, mixed, and mastered by James Dellatacoma at Orange Music in West Orange, NJ. Andrew Colwell (bass, electronics, vocals), Anthony Pirog (guitar, electronics, synth), and Dan Sharnoff (drums, tapes, samples) make up ZĀM, delivering a performance that feels improvised yet cohesive.

“Waves of Seeing” by ZĀM is an audio-visual journey that challenges the listener’s perception of music. It’s a raw, experimental album that demands attention and rewards it with a unique sonic experience.

buy this Vinyl, Digital at Waves of Seeing’s preferred online retailer

Media: Vinyl, Digital.

Visit Echodelick Records

Bandcamp URL: https://echodelickrecords.bandcamp.com/album/waves-of-seeing

No.5224

GAJOOB Review by Bryan Baker:

The sonic landscape that is “Trash Milagro” marries the unconventional artistry of Rafael González and Hal McGee, bringing together a myriad of sound sources from their respective environments. As a fan of dictaphone assemblage audio folk art, this album offers an intriguing auditory journey through the everyday sounds that surround us.

Recorded in November 2023 across The Canary Islands, Spain, and Gainesville, Florida, USA, these artists have transformed the mundane into the extraordinary. The album thrives on its authenticity and the joy, friendship, and love with which it has been offered to listeners.

Rafael’s sound sources are diverse and intriguing, ranging from his voice and Korg Monotron, Korg Monotribe, Smartphone sounds, field recordings, household objects, and utensils, to more traditional musical instruments like the trumpet. His use of manipulated cassettes and short circuits on Korg Monotron Delay adds a layer of experimental intrigue.

Hal, on the other hand, incorporates a more personal touch to his sound sources. His voice, family, co-workers, and even his dog Stanley, all contribute to the sonic tapestry of this album. Hal also introduces a variety of musical instruments, including a circuit bent Casio SK-1, a two-string pink dumpster guitar, and transparent plastic ukulele, adding unexpected musical dimensions to the overall sound.

Featuring their mutual friend Trevor Luke, the album includes Trevor’s voice and analog synthesizer play, further enriching the auditory experience.

Constructed from 624 individual recordings made during November 2023 using pocket-sized digital dictaphones, “Trash Milagro” is a testament to the power of everyday sounds. Or, perhaps, it’s a testament to the power of our minds to disassemble a sonic “randominity” (to coin a phrase) stream into some kind of sense. Whatever it is, Trash Milagro is mixed together using without any additional effects and its raw authenticity of these recordings shines through.

The album is divided into six 15-minute tracks, each offering a unique auditory journey. It’s an immersive 90-minute experience meant to be savored in its entirety, though the track divisions provide convenient listening intervals.

“Trash Milagro” is indeed a trash assemblage, but in the most artistic sense. It’s an album that invites listeners to find beauty in the mundane, transforming everyday sounds into a symphony of life’s simplest moments. It works both as an immersive sensory experience and a background ambience, offering a sort of musical synesthesia that is both intriguing and enjoyable.

The album also features liner notes and a couple panoramic collages with photos of things found in the bustle of the recordings.

You can explore this fascinating sonic landscape at halmcgee.bandcamp.com.

Media: Digital.

Visit Hal McGee / HalTapes / Electronic Cottage

Bandcamp URL: https://halmcgee.bandcamp.com/album/trash-milagro

No.5227

GAJOOB Review by Bryan Baker:

The Human Hearts, centered around the songs of Franklin Bruno, presents their album “Viable,” a dynamic exploration of wide-ranging musical styles. Released on October 20, 2023, the album is a testament to Bruno’s unique songwriting prowess and his ability to blur (or maybe embrace) genre boundaries.

Setting the stage with “Flag Pin,” the listener is introduced to Bruno’s compelling lyricism and engaging melodies. The journey continues with tracks like “Loyal Opposition” and “Inland Valley Water Table Blues,” each showcasing different facets of Bruno’s eclectic musical influences.

One of the highlights of the album is “Last Words of Her Lover,” featuring the vocals of Bree Benton. The track is an example of Bruno’s theatrical folk leanings, balancing familiarity with fresh interpretation.

“Distracted,” featuring the vocal talents of Jenny Toomey, dives into indie post-punk, demonstrating Bruno’s versatility and The Human Hearts’ deft handling of various genres. The dramatic and sublime “Nick Cave” offers a poignant tribute, while “Sell Pile” introduces a lighter, humorous note, nodding to Bruno’s traditional songwriting roots.

“Viable” is a thoughtfully curated compilation of non-album tracks from 2011-2015, including releases from Fayettenam and WIAIWYA, the “Flag Pin” EP, and other previous releases. All 14 songs have been newly mastered for vinyl and download, encapsulating Bruno’s evolving musical journey under The Human Hearts’ banner.

“Viable” serves as a remarkable showcase of Franklin Bruno’s songwriting and The Human Hearts’ musical versatility. Whether you’re already a fan or a newcomer to their music, this album is a must-listen.

Media: Vinyl, Digital.

• On Bandcamp

No.5226

GAJOOB Review by Bryan Baker:

Sam Amidon’s self-titled album, released on October 23, 2020, is a fascinating exploration of folk music that bridges the gap between traditional and contemporary sounds.

The album is a testament to Amidon’s talent for reinterpreting classic folk songs in a way that feels both fresh and nostalgic. His vocals, reminiscent of traditional folk, evoke a sense of longing for melodies that seem ingrained in our collective musical DNA.

Opening with “Maggie”, the album immediately sets the tone with its captivating blend of modern and traditional elements. Amidon’s rendition of “Pretty Polly” is hauntingly beautiful, while “Light Rain Blues” showcases his skill for storytelling set against a backdrop of compelling rhythms.

Throughout the album, Amidon takes listeners on a journey through time, breathing new life into beloved tunes like “Spanish Merchant’s Daughter” and “Reuben”. The standout track “Hallelujah” is a testament to his ability to capture the essence of classic folk while infusing it with a distinctly contemporary sound.

The album concludes with the poignant “Sundown”, featuring Beth Orton, a perfect ending to an impressive collection of reimagined folk songs.

Amidon has described this album as the “fullest realization to date of his artistic vision”. Indeed, his unique approach to these nine mostly traditional folk songs stands as a testament to his innovative spirit and deep respect for the genre.

“Sam Amidon” is a bold and innovative album that pushes the boundaries of folk music. It offers listeners a refreshing take on traditional songs while remaining grounded in the timeless appeal of the genre. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Amidon or new to his music, this album is a must-listen.

Media: Digital.

Visit Sam Amidon

Bandcamp URL: https://samamidon.bandcamp.com/album/sam-amidon