Hello all! This week, I have a properly insane record that was recommended to me, that I am in turn sharing with you. Metal music can express intensity and anger. Records like The Downward Spiral capture a feeling of chaos, hopelessness, and darkness. But I've never before heard music that made me feel scared. That's what Soundtracks for the Blind is. And it is an experience. Built from a collage of recordings and textures paired with live instruments, Soundtracks for the Blind by Swans performs this uneasy bleakness that doesn't seem to stop, only to change and morph in front of you. The album foregoes expected structures and doesn't hold back in employing any and all sounds. But it's also not a mesh of randomness. There is a biting intentionality behind every sound, deeper meaning that almost begs to be conveyed. Being a very long album that flows through many movements, it's difficult to choose favorites. However, while listening, I tried to pick out songs that especially interested me. I am often inclined toward transition pieces and instrumentals, which may be the root of my liking of Live Through Me. The complex textures of this track provide a deep listen that leaves you wondering what comes next. Volcano is striking, subverting its resemblance to eurodance and 90s club music. The sickening descent of Mellothumb haunts your thoughts. But there are moments of beauty too—Animus treats us to some smooth synths and calm vocals. Even the tense bits of the track show some merciful restraint. The building rock section of The Sound is climactic and engaging. Blood Section feels like waking from a dream into another dream that's not quite right. The vibraphone and breakdown of Empathy are twin highlights. Secret Friends' mysterious lilt makes you wonder just what is in that dark corner of your room. I will forewarn you—I can guarantee it's not for everyone. But I can also guarantee that it is an experience, and an experience I cannot accurately compare to any other. If you like some music, Soundtracks for the Blind might not be for you. But if you like *music*, I am certain that if you listen, you will get something out of this record. You can give it a try here:
Alex Kunce
Screaming out your name.
Hello all! This week, I have a properly insane record that was recommended to me, that I am in turn sharing with you. Metal music can express intensity and anger. Records like The Downward Spiral capture a feeling of chaos, hopelessness, and darkness. But I've never before heard music that made me feel scared. That's what Soundtracks for the Blind is. And it is an experience. Built from a collage of recordings and textures paired with live instruments, Soundtracks for the Blind by Swans performs this uneasy bleakness that doesn't seem to stop, only to change and morph in front of you. The album foregoes expected structures and doesn't hold back in employing any and all sounds. But it's also not a mesh of randomness. There is a biting intentionality behind every sound, deeper meaning that almost begs to be conveyed. Being a very long album that flows through many movements, it's difficult to choose favorites. However, while listening, I tried to pick out songs that especially interested me. I am often inclined toward transition pieces and instrumentals, which may be the root of my liking of Live Through Me. The complex textures of this track provide a deep listen that leaves you wondering what comes next. Volcano is striking, subverting its resemblance to eurodance and 90s club music. The sickening descent of Mellothumb haunts your thoughts. But there are moments of beauty too—Animus treats us to some smooth synths and calm vocals. Even the tense bits of the track show some merciful restraint. The building rock section of The Sound is climactic and engaging. Blood Section feels like waking from a dream into another dream that's not quite right. The vibraphone and breakdown of Empathy are twin highlights. Secret Friends' mysterious lilt makes you wonder just what is in that dark corner of your room. I will forewarn you—I can guarantee it's not for everyone. But I can also guarantee that it is an experience, and an experience I cannot accurately compare to any other. If you like some music, Soundtracks for the Blind might not be for you. But if you like *music*, I am certain that if you listen, you will get something out of this record. You can give it a try here:
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1 month ago | [YT] | 3