Every time I write a record review, I usually start by jotting down notes and making comparisons as I listen, trying to classify and find easily identifiable reference points for the music I'm hearing. Sure, I could say that the latest album from Chicago product The Eternals is a mix of dub, funk, electronic, art-noise, and experimental rock. I could continue by saying that Heavy International recalls a twisted and elastic sort-of dub-ized TVOTR, but that just wouldn't cut it. The Eternals' music is complex and unique and is difficult to find comparisons for.
I'll start off (however) by saying that many people will not like this album (my wife included). Yes, Heavy International is full of rubbery danceable basslines that groove along to the beat, you can't dance to it. It is not catchy (in any normal sense of the word) but doesn't make really good background music either. Because of those factors it is virtually impossible to casually listen to Heavy International. The Eternals make music that challenges listeners. It sounds deliberately in-your-face and will turn off anyone not willing to pay attention to the details and the craftsmanship involved. Anyone expecting anything resembling pop-music should turn back now.
There is an underlying repetitive dub feel to the album that have led some to call the music of The Eternals futuristic indie reggae, but it is more than that. The band consists of frontman Damon Locks and bassist Wayne Montana (both of whom used to play in Trenchmouth) and former Vandermark 5 drummer Tim Mulvenna. And while dub is a good starting point, the band layers on warped textures, rhythmic weirdness, and (most easily apparent) the psychedelic and somewhat atonal vocal stylings of Locks. And whether processed beyond recognition or sung in an off-key falsetto, his vocals can safely be called unconventional.
I suggest you give Heavy International a try. It is a ponderous and eclectic album that can be difficult but ultimately rewarding for fans of just about any genre. Heavy International is out now on Aesthetics.
MP3 | The Eternals - The Origin Of The Heatray Heavy International
MP3 | the Eternals - Astra 3B Heavy International
1 Comments ↓
Great review. And a great CD; I loved this one from start to finish.
My only disagreement is with your assertion that you can't dance to this. Are you kidding me? I've tried NOT dancing/jumping-rope/shadowboxing to the thing, and have found restraint a futile gesture.
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