Immaculate:Grotesque "Beating a Dead Horse" 3" CD
[Chondritic]
First up on this brief EP is the six-minute title track, opening up straight away with some of the atmospheric harsh noise that makes Immaculate:Grotesque one of the best in the business right now for my money. Crunchy midrange distortion that's not too thick or oppressive glazed over a thicker low-end hum that offers an eerier and more intriguing side to the piece. And yet, despite its restrained nature, it's still quite loud, and uses a lot of piercing high-end that's hard on the ears. Following that is "Mirror - Stained at Last", which tops 13 minutes and uses a similar brand of midrange attack that's not too over the top, and allows some thin windiness to catch a breath at times. It's certainly a rawer and more acerbic piece than the opener, gradually increasing in intensity over time, but there's still an odd sort of darkness happening underneath the distortion here and there, which really makes a huge difference. Also effective is the use of movement throughout the length of the piece, remaining consistent yet building within the structure without stagnating at all. The disc comes in a small jewel case with a removable tray and has an insert printed on matte white stock with minimal artwork and text - hand-numbered of only 52 copies. Another short but sweet release solidifying Immaculate:Grotesque's reputation as one of the most notable American noise artists out there right now. If this happens to still be available fans of the genre should definitely grab one while they still can. (7/10)
Running time - 19:12, Tracks: 2
[Notable tracks: both are quite strong]
Chondritic Sound - http://www.chondriticsound.com

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