Music Reviews

Cheryl E. Leonard & Wobbly: Multiple Park

More reviews by
Artist: Cheryl E. Leonard & Wobbly (@)
Title: Multiple Park
Format: 10"
Label: Gilgongo Records (@)
Rated: * * * * *
For an album that was recorded in so many varied locations (in studio improvisation and outdoors in multiple parks) Multiple Park makes for a remarkably cohesive listen. Despite the numerous self-made instruments and field recordings that in some hands might yield something more cacophonous, Cheryl E. Leonard and Wobbly (Jon Leidecker) have crafted a something significantly more chill to listen to. These compositions craft a new environment. One that is wholly different from the ones used for it's creation. Bones, stones, water, ice, shells, metals... all used to fashion new instruments created by Cheryl E. Leonard (many of which are beautifully showcased on the album sleeve). Joining these naturalistic distortions are Wobbly's electronic contributions which seamlessly integrate into the flute-like timbres of bones and chime-like qualities of melting icicles. Multiple Park is a compelling place to visit. A place that I'm still discovering and one that my cat felt immediately at home with. That's a good thing.


Project: Void: Morgue of Broken Souls

More reviews by
Artist: Project: Void
Title: Morgue of Broken Souls
Format: CD
Label: self-released
Rated: * * * * *
Project: Void is the solo project of Corvus Rex (Fury 161, Black Crow King) and the 2019 offering, "Morgue of Broken Souls," is a relentless assault on the senses, a veritable pandemonium of noise and caustic soundscapes that leaves the listener simultaneously intrigued and disoriented. While not for the faint of heart, this album serves as a daring exploration into the realms of dissonance and disarray.

The album's shrill sounds and disjointed beats create an atmosphere of sonic turbulence, pulling the listener into a vortex of raw, unfiltered emotion. Project: Void fearlessly delves into the depths of experimentation, pushing boundaries and defying conventional song structures. It is an auditory journey that demands attention and rewards those willing to immerse themselves in its tumultuous waves.

The distorted and aggressive vocals, although at times monotonous, convey a certain cathartic power. While one might argue that they occasionally detract from the music itself, there is an undeniable intensity that emanates from the vocal delivery. It serves as an abrasive force that further emphasizes the chaotic nature of the album, even if it occasionally becomes distracting.

However, where "Morgue of Broken Souls" truly shines is in its ability to balance its scorched earth sounds with moments of respite. Amidst the chaos, Project: Void cleverly weaves in softer passages, offering a welcomed contrast that provides a necessary breather for the listener. These delicate interludes showcase the band's versatility and a keen understanding of dynamics, creating a nuanced listening experience that oscillates between the brutal and the tender.

Among the standout tracks on the album, "Return to the Void" stands out as a prime example of Project: Void's sonic prowess. "Demons" follows suit, combining jagged instrumentation with relentless energy, captivating the listener from start to finish.

Ultimately, "Morgue of Broken Souls" is a daring and unapologetic exploration of noise and chaos. Project: Void fearlessly embraces dissonance, delivering an album that demands attention and rewards those who delve into its caustic depths. While the aggressive and distorted vocals may at times distract from the music, the album's softer passages offer a much-needed respite and showcase the band's versatility.


Inabile Caos: 1.0

More reviews by
Artist: Inabile Caos
Title: 1.0
Format: CD + Download
Label: Essentia Mundi (@)
Rated: * * * * *
1.0 by Inabile Caos is the project of Davide Denvito and this debut release, 1.0, is fucking fantastic. A unique sounding endeavor covering a lot of sonic ground but I was immediately hit with the same great vibes I get when listening to bands like Earth, Bohren and der Club of Gore, The Dale Cooper Quartet, Godflesh and other great acts pounding out chill drones and metal textures and cascades. If reading any of those band names perks an eyebrow… then grab this record immediately. It’s hitting all the right places. Stand out tracks: 1.4.1 really surges from heavy heavy to super sparse and chill. It’s a good journey. 1.5 is probably my favorite. The Twang of western flavored guitars drifting around in lost in time landscapes while the man with no name is dodging bullet snares and rimshots.


1