GODSEND ONLINE : L
Labradford-"E Luxo So" CD-The sound of LABRADFORD is like little else out there. This Virginia-based group combine both organic and electronic sources to create what I call "pure" music--free of the constraints of individual personality and ego. LABRADFORD create moody, minimalist soundscapes that soothe and sift through the subconscious. But this is not simply experimental noodlings, as there are well-refined melodies haunting these 6 tracks. LABRADFORD harness to power of subtlety and create individual soundtracks that resonate within the soul. Beautiful work and wholly recommended. (Kranky)
Labradford-"fixed::context" CD-This sixth full LP from LABRADFORD is a serene and overall lovely release that combines the 'glitch' feel of stuff like POLE or OVAL with highly melodic instrumental guitarscapes. The resultant feel is that of an effective (and affecting) soundtrack, ripe with introspection and emotion. Like many of their labelmates, this trio knows the power of minimalism, often using just electronically-generated noises or static alongside a single strummed guitar. LABRADFORD bring a warmth and humanity to their music without having to utter a single word or lyric. And although some may classify this as some sort of ambient listening, it's just too song-based and melodic to ignore into the background. Highest recommendations and praise, for this is a gorgeous album. (Kranky)
Lab Report-"All Your Little Pieces Make Me A Whole" CD-Matthew Schultz's first self-released work after leaving Invisible is a very dark and even chilling excursion into netherworld of drones, tones, chimes, and obscure dialogues (from Jeffrey Dahmer's defense attorney). Schultz sculpts his soundtracks here entirely from samples manipulated on ProTools (as opposed to his past live noisework), and this potpourri of eerie sound is tense and frightening. These 8 tracks were recorded as musical accompaniment for a gallery show featuring Schultz's sculptures, but this album works quite well on it's own. I'm imagining a dank, enclosed basement infested with rot and body parts. LAB REPORT harkens a return to the more taboo subjects of the early "industrial" scene, and does it with enough finesse and style to make it all worthwhile. (Lab Report)
Lab Report-"Classical Atmospheres" CD-A sort of new direction for Matthew Schultz and his LAB REPORT project. This time out, Schultz employs (as the title indicates) a more structured film music approach alongside his well-known experimental enviro-scapes. The sound is still recognizable as LAB REPORT, with all the tension-packed drones and minimalist metallic scrapings he's been known for since the early 90s. However, here it seems here that Schultz has brought it all together into a cohesive collection of pieces that would be well-suited for a nightmarish soundtrack that would put most Hollywood composers to shame. The sense of dynamic and expert ear for subtlety and tension is apparent, and tracks like 'Bombastic One' (featuring surprise guitar work by Johnny Polonsky) prove that Schultz is an artist willing to move in different directions while maintaining his identity and integrity. A wonderful release, 'Classical Atmospheres' is light years from LAB REPORT's more chaotic early work, yet still maintaining a potency and element of eerie surprise. Simply stunning work. (Lab Report)
Lab Report-Excision CD-Matt Schultz returns with his most soundtrack-esque work yet. Excision retains the freeform experimental feel of his past releases, but the emphasis here is on atmosphere and mood. Schultz and new partner Derek Frederickson conjure moody and desolate soundscapes of an intense and eerie sort of beauty. (Invisible)
Mike Ladd - "Negrophilia - The Album" CD - Known in avante-hip-hop circles for his work with forward-thinking urban acts like El-P, the Bronx-based Ladd here throws down some ultra-kool grooves with the assistance of free-jazz meistros like Guillermo E. Brown and Vijay Iyer. Ladd's smoky trip-hop is tempered by turntables and loops, but also with plenty of live instrumentation. There is, of course, a heavy out-jazz element here, but the cut-up beats, loops, and heavy-duty electronics take it into uncharted regions. I found this release to be quite enjoyable, blurring the lines between avante-electronica, hip-hop, sound poetry, and out-jazz. Ladd's work is unforgettably unique, evocative, and visionary. Kudos to him and all of his collaborators here, as 'Negrophilia' should open a great many minds with the right promotion. (Thirsty Ear)
Laibach-Jesus Christ Superstars CD-A more guitarheavy crossover sound from the always changing LAIBACH--this time a scathing indictment on christianity. Covers this time include JUNO REACTORs God is God and the title track by Andrew Lloyd-Webber. Seems like those remixes for MORBID ANGEL really rubbed off on the band? A strong album. (Mute)
Laibach-Laibach CD-Reissue of seminal debut. Heavy, militaristic, bombastic, percussive,and influential work from these Yugoslavian political-art-terrorists.(ROIR)
L'Altra - "In The Afternoon" CD - This subtle Chicago group's 2nd album pulses with a warm, melancholy afterburn that simultaneously soothes and resonates. L'ALTRA's primarily acoustic songs gently filter through the psyche, leaving a vapor-trail of moody reflection and heartbreak. The dual male/female vocals add a nice balance, while the band's songwriting and production has developed into a very emotional and melodic affair, complete with strings and brass to round out the songs (especially on the lovely 'Certainty', which ends on an almost jazzy note). 'Black Arrow' is a more upbeat and rhythmic track, and another standout is 'Afternoon Sun'--a bittersweet lament that would do LOW or even Will Oldham proud. Throw a beautiful digipack design into the equation (with superb photography by the band's own Joseph Costa) and you have quite a superb album. Excellent. (Aesthetics)
L'Altra-"Music Of A Sinking Occasion" CD-An excellent and low-key indie/post-rock release that drops hints of electronic, drum & bass, and even a kinda jazzy vibe here and there, to great effect. L'ALTRA's dual male/female vocals provide a nice balance and the diverse music is gently melodic and well-produced. The high point is 'Room Becomes Thick', which is a sad pop masterpiece with an oddly melodic crescendo. Fans of stuff as disparate as LOW, late-period SWANS, or even TORTOISE or MY BLOODY VALENTINE should find much to like about this release which has been spending much time in my CD player. A beautiful, poignant release that should garner L'ALTRA and the impeccable Aesthetics label some serious attention. (Aesthetics)
Brannan Lane - "Distant Friends" CD - This is a collection of 6 unreleased tracks of Tennessee-based composer Brannan Lane's world-class ambient/world sounds, each track a collaboration with a like-minded artist. And remarkably, this release flows perfectly well as a whole. And 'flow' may well be the operative word there, as 'Distant Friends' is a softly floating series of ambient electronic soundscapes that gradually take flight and waft through the air. With contributions from such artists as VIDNA OBMANA, AMIR BAGHIRI, and ROBERT CARTY, among others, Lane's extended soundscapes echo with a warm earthliness that seductively lulls the listener into a state of relaxation and contemplation. 'Distant Friends' is a wonderously meditative journey and an easily-recommended release. (Ambient Circle Music c/o Brannan Lane Music)
Brannan Lane - "Hypnotic Drift" CD - Excellent ambient earthscapes that easily rival bigger names like ROBERT RICH or STEVE ROACH. 'Hypnotic Drift' effectively provides the soundtrack to a lovely, laid-back night at home dreaming of a cool night under the stars. Drifting, shifting, evolving ambience that functions well whether it's background sound or as a relaxing focus. Superb and perfecly gorgeous work that more than ably fulfills the title's premise. (Brannan Lane Music)
Brannan Lane - "Piano Dreams & Nightscapes" CD - Prolific ambient composer Lane here presents yet another fascinating facet of his vast repertoire. As the title implies, this 60+ minute release is a shimmery collection of piano-driven moods and nocturnal textures. Starting off with the lovely 'Piano Dreams', this CD moves more and more into comtemplative ambience and drifting electronic motifs with 'Falling Nightscapes', 'Moonlit Reflections', and the closer, 'Daze Gone By'. It all flows very nicely, and as an experience, there are few CDs I have heard lately that convey this sort of spirit of balance and relaxation. For fans of seminal ambient ENO or the bonechilling soundtracks of LUSTMORD, Lane's wonderful soundscapes will fulfill and enchant. I really love this one. (Ambient Circle Music)
Brannan Lane - "To Earth And Back" CD - 6 tracks of earthy and refreshingly colorful ambient terrain from this Tennessee-based composer. Using chiefly electronic instrumentation (alongside some chimes and shakers), Lane successfully manages to simulate a series of natural landscapes that take the listener back to a time and space where deadlines and rush-hour traffic weren't a concern. 'To Earth And Back' offers a return to a less complex, more primal time when the songs of the earth were the wind blowing through the trees and the tides rolling into the bay. A beautifully atmospheric and filmic collection of atmospheres and textures. Excellent! (Spaceformusic.com)
Brannan Lane / Vidna Obmana - "Deep Unknown" CDR - BRANNAN LANE is a versatile Tennessee-based musician who works in a variety of genres, but this solo release, which includes 3 tracks done in collaboration with VIDNA OBMANA, is a strikingly beautiful set of gently enveloping natural textures and moist, earthy terrain. Using a myriad of exotic instrumentation (djembe, shakers, chimes, bells, bottles, chairs, rain stick, etc.) as well as electronics, 'Deep Unknown' is a world-class collection of meditative, ambient soundscapes that will more than please any fan of stuff by 'bigger' names like ROBERT RICH or STEVE ROACH. The production is deep and top-notch, making it easy to drift off to the soft and life-affirming sounds that these composers craft at every turn. A superb release and I look forwards to hearing more from Brannan in the future! (Brannan Lane Music)
The Last Dance - "Once Beautiful" CD - This veteran goth rock act here presents an anthemic dark-pop-dance album along the same lines as labelmates THE CRUXSHADOWS, but a little less synth-clubby. There's plenty of strong songwriting and production here, with dramatic choruses, driving syn-drums, and chiming guitars. Certainly a solid work for the genre, but at the same time a little difficult to take seriously. (Dancing Ferret)
The Last Dance - "Reflections Of Rage" CD - This band's name evokes a classic, old-school goth sort of vibe, but this full-length CD of remixes offers something quite different indeed. 'Reflections Of Rage' is a collection of remixes that place THE LAST DANCE firmly within the trendy club futurepop/synth-rock framework, with dark, drama-laced vocals, strong guitars, programmed beats, and anthemic songwriting. To their credit, it is a strong mix for shadowy late-night clubfloors. "Skinny Puppy collaborator" Cyrusrex's mix of 'Silently She' is a cool and scrambled mesh of disjointed electronic rhythmics and glitchy programming--certainly a standout. Also cool is CORVUS CORAX's Celtic-inflected mix of 'Nightmares', which strolls along with powerful drumwork to potent effect. The closing track is an unexpected and inexcuseable cover of 'Oops, I Did It Again', done up all darkwave/futurepop-like. Really weird. Not an awful release, but I can't help but feel that it's a conscious attempt to blend in with an all-too-samey scene. (Dancing Ferret)
Latimer-Worlds Portable CD-Your basic indie rock. Didnt do much for me.(World Domination)
Lavelle, Caroline-Spirit CD-Soft, classy, and mature ambient pop thatll fit well next to your SARAH MCLACHLAN or MOON SEVEN TIMES discs. (Discovery)
LCEDP - "De l'Utilite Des Convoyeurs" CD - From Montreal comes this lengthy (75 minute) and limited (500 copies) debut from Antoine Cote, and it's quite the earful. LCEDP specialize in highly charged, rhythmic powernoise. Expect lots of insistent, jackhammer industrial beats, distorted machine noises, and more of the same. 'De l'Utilitie' is an unforgiving and punishing assault on your senses, tailormade for fans of the Hands or Ant-Zen labels. Well-done, but a little one-sided and samey for my tastes. (Angle Rec.)
Leaether Strip-Legacy Of Hate and Lust CD-Europes techbeat aggressor dips his hands into more melodic, darkwave waters and the result is a generally more mellow, whiny, dull affair.(Cleopatra)
Bruce Lee - "The Legend Lives On" DVD - This 60 minute documentary collects a number of reminiscences on the legendary and immortal Bruce Lee, through interviews with friends, acquaintances, family members, and co-stars (including notables like James Coburn, Jackie Chan, brother Robert, and son Brandon). Interspersed with the stories and recollections are clips and memorable fight footage from some of Bruce Lee's famous and oft-copied starring roles ('Enter The Dragon', etc.). 'The Legend Lives' is a good place for Lee fanatics to gain some insight into this enigmatic man and his everlasting effect on the world of martial arts and especially its' presence in film. And although this is a fine watch for hardcore fans, the package seems a bit thin, as this documentary would be better-suited as a bonus addition to one of Lee's classic films rather than as a full-fledged feature in itself. (Waterfall Home Entertainment c/o Music Video Distributors)
Leech Woman-33 Degrees CD-A pounding, aggro attack from this new UK band, complete with metal percussion and grungy guitar/bass. Kinda in the same vein as early COP SHOOT COP maybe. Pretty cool stuff. (Invisible)
LEGENDARY PINK DOTS-"Nemesis Online" CD-This long-awaited new album from the Dots is maybe their best album in several years, again blurring the lines between experimental, electronic, psychedelia, and rock. Edward Ka-Spel's lyrics and voice are as intelligent and visionary as ever, and the band's melodic, dubby grooves are filmic and exotic, sounding like nothing else out there. I do notice a little bit more of a "pop" feel in this album, but only in the song-structures in spots, and not in the commercial sense. "Fate's Faithful Punchline" is simply beautiful, mixing up an almost folk song vibe with Ka-Spel's melancholic vocals. Simply put, if you've ever liked the Pink Dots, this is a must hear. "Nemesis Online" moves effortlessly from hyped-up and percussive experimental rock songs to mellower and moodier tracks. An amazing album. (Soleilmoon)
Legion Ultra - "Perversion Of Purity" LP+7" - This new project of former MURNAU mastermind Koen continues in the direction of his previous works. LEGION ULTRA's debut slings all kinds of harsh rhythmic power noise your way, with no regard whatsoever for your personal safety or comfort. Beginning with the shrill agony of 'Helix', the ride continues with the scorching power-rhythmics of 'Martyr, which sounds like what might happen if WHITEHOUSE got into a brutal melee with a meat-mincing machine, and recorded every sound. This is music not intended for the meek or timid, nor the pure, of heart. LEGION ULTRA's brand of oppressive power noise bounces devastating blasts of electronic feedback as rhythms and shouts all kinds of virtually indistinguishable taunts your way. Feel the pain, baby. Positively destructive and cleansing sounds. (220N/Hands c/o Murnau)
Ginger Leigh - "A True Life Story" CDR - More undefinable sounds from this prolific and enigmatic composer, 'A True Life Story' slinks from abrasive noise grinds ('Push/Pull' is a scorching assault) to darkly seductive Middle-Eastern dubs ('Elephant Milk' could be a long-lost MUSLIMGAUZE track). Later tracks alternate between looped-up and shrill rhythmic noise with a tribal influence to dark digital textures, almost always with a harsh, bombastic, and volatile temperament. A uniquely brutal release with an exotic flair, GINGER LEIGH's 'A True Life Story' is at once breathtaking and harrowing. (Ginger Leigh)
Ginger Leigh-"Broken By The World" CDR-This brief 6 track set of mostly instrumental tracks by California's Ginger Leigh showcases some diverse musical influences and obvious professional programming skills. From noise-laced post-industrial grinds to mysterious cyber-techno grooves to the middle eastern exotica of 'Little Angels' to the surreal 'found' vocals on the campy and cinematic 'Broken By The World', Leigh crafts a brave new world within these 21 minutes. Only the final track, 'Waiting For the Apocalypse', fails to impress, as it's emergency sirens and repetitive, erratic rhythms seem to linger to infinity. All-in-all, a fine release and worthy of attention. (Ginger Leigh)
Ginger Leigh-"From Artesia With Love" CDR-- This California-based solo composer draws in a number of disparate musical elements into his weird sonic stew. Exotic, Middle-Eastern-flavored percussion and samples (ala MUSLIMGAUZE) are the first thing to crop up, then by track 3, it's energetic and thumping techno with an aura of distortion. The kind of techno that might scare some more conventional clubgoers with it's maelstrom of dark post-industrial effects. 'God Is In The Mountain' is a bizarre and noisy programmed-rock track that kind of goes nowhere. Further on in the disc, things take a turn for the even more bizarre as the creeped-out soundscapes begin, then more Middle-Eastern themes, distant drones, electronic screeches, etc. 'From Artesia With Love' doesn't always congeal itself fully, but there's enough interesting sounds and juxtapositions to be challenging and unique. Solid work for more adventurous ears. (Ginger Leigh)
Ginger Leigh - "If I Should Die Tomorrow" CD - More harsh and unexpected sounds from this California-based composer who uses Middle-Eastern loops and sounds ala MUSLIMGAUZE in spots, but tempers that intensity with traces of funk (the opening track, 'Walk Tall'), earshredding noise, and everything in-between ('Love Letters' joins what sounds like distorted banjo, simulated bagpipe drone, and martial drumming loops). 'More Unquestionable Truths' begins with a disco beat that can be heard alongside a sizzling amount of crisp noise drone. Very effective music that comes at you from all sorts of directions and never fails to keep you awake with generous amounts of shrill feedback and crushing over-the-top distortion. From rhythmic and near-danceworthy to purely loop-based experimental compositions, GINGER LEIGH has created a niche which is pretty well fully his own. (Ginger Leigh)
Ginger Leigh - "Sparrow Wings" CD - The mysterious and prolific Ginger Leigh returns with this 6-song, 29-minute release of odd and abrasive soundtracks. Opening with a mirthful and exotic (and, eventually, noise-laced) 60's-pop-inflected piece, the disc leads into 'Here Come The Trumpets' - a tightly-compressed, claustrophobic attack on the senses, complete with screeching feedback and trebly static. The composer's fascination with Middle-Eastern themes can also be felt on 'Immigrant Song', which has little in common with the (cough) classic rock song of the same name. Approaching a kind of better-developed digital power noise at times, the music of GL is certainly not for the timid of ear or mind, and the crunchy, dark, and often-repetitive themes may frighten those not familiar with similarly-minded post-industrial sounds, but given an open mind and ear, these tracks are engaging, unpredictable, and unique. (www.gingerleigh.com)
Ginger Leigh - "10 Stories 10 Lies" CDR - Billed as an "original motion picture soundtrack", this California-based solo artist brings an impressively diverse arsenal of moods and motifs in this 13-song journey. From loopy proto-power-electronics ('Alice In Wonderland') to freako exotica with ('I Know What I Gotta Do'), Leigh provides an array of heavy-duty post-industrial electronics, Middle-Eastern rhythms, and oddly surreal sounds, all the while never truly fitting into a rigid set of ideals or set styles. 'Black Hair' sounds like a bastard love-child between MUSLIMGAUZE and THRILL KILL KULT maybe, with it's overdriven bass, distorted vocals, and galloping tabla rhythms. The bottle-rockets-in-the-mosque sounds of 'Little Angels' is reprised from his last album, while the NEW YORK DOLLS cover, 'Chatterbox', is an unexpected rough-and-tumble ride into sleazy rock & roll territory. Then it's back into 'Pearl Necklace', a lovely classical/drone piece that would work nicely in a David Lynch film. All-in-all, a more than solid work that doesn't fail to surprise and even shock in its unique combination of vibes and disparate cultural reference points. (Ginger Leigh)
Levinhurst - "Hope/Sorrow/Despair" CDS - Featuring former CURE co-founder Lol Tolhurst alongside vocalist Cindy Levinson, this brief 3-song sampler is an interesting and refreshing blend of pop sounds. 'Hope' is a jaunty electro-dance-pop cut with Levinson's lovely vocals over beds of pulsing 80s-ish synths and beats. 'Despair' is a big-beat club cut that should make some waves on the dance (and perhaps electro-clash) scene. It's a simple, yet effective sound. Don't expect anything to sound remotely CURE-ish, here, of course, but LEVINHURST is a refreshing and enjoyable amalgam of accessable sounds. (Fullcm)
Levinhurst - "Perfect Life" CD - Featuring Lol Tolhurst, who was an early member of THE CURE, this new project highlights a vaguely electro-clash/trip-pop sound with enticing vocals by Cindy Levinson. 'Sorrow' is an especially catchy little number, whereas 'Sadman' brings a heavier, thumpier beat with longing vocals by Levinson. 'Despair' is another memorable cut, complete with a clubby trance-techno backdrop and subtle vocals. 'Hope' is a darker track with more abrasive electro textures. Taken as a whole, 'Perfect Life' is a perfectly amiable disc of cute and altogether strong pop songs that glisten with clarity and a vaguely dark vibe. I really like this one! (Full Contact Music)
Lichens - "Ohns" CD+DVD - The second release from guitarist Robert A.A. Lowe's mysterious psychedelic project Lichens is a cloudy fog of improvised guitars and effects, a drony and mystical set of opaque sounds that reflect as much of an interest in ritual and trance as they do in conventional songcraft. The tellingly-titled 'M str ng W tchcr ft L ng n Sp r t' is a highlight, being 16 minutes of delicate fingerpicking and layers of keyboard drone that evolve into a lush woodland ambience complete with a chatter of birdsounds and distant hums. Lichens seems to be a vehicle for the subconscious channeling of sound and spirit from Lowe, and his recordings are testament to the power of the unspoken and intuition. The attached DVD is a recording of a 30-minute live show that presents the vision of Lichens in a public forum, and is an eye and ear-opening experience, watching Lowe conjure primal states with little more than a guitar, a microphone, and some effects pedals. His extended vocal exploration here is simply incredible. Wonderous work here. (Kranky)
Lichens - "The Psychic Nature Of Being" CD - This debut release from Robert Lowe is a stunning collection of improvised drones and hand-plucked guitar that reminds of the immortal JOHN FAHEY meeting a cosmic psychedelic opium den. It's only 3 tracks and 40 minutes, but Lowe's hallucinogenic streams of consciousness soundscapings harken back to a more primal state. The first track, 'Kirlian Auras', seems akin to ZOVIET FRANCE's prime work, all echoing/looping drones and tribal murmurings (but with added guitar tinkerings). Brilliant work and fully recommended. (Kranky)
Lick-Breech CD-Aggro rock with electronic fx for fans of stuff like SUGARSMACK or PIGFACE. Cool enough.(Invisible)
Lick-Heap CD-A cool comp of remixes, demos, and experiments from Chicagos dynamic and rock-oriented LICK. Some fine aggro work thats tailormade for fans of PIGFACE or ACUMEN. (Invisible)
Life of Agony-Ugly CD-The usual, overproduced hard rock/metal. Curious for the cover of SIMPLE MINDS80s classic Dont You(Forget About Me). (Roadrunner)
Lilac Ambush - "Arsenal" CD - This Massachusetts-based duo here releases their proper debut full-length CD, and it continues their stylish fusion of 80s-new wave rock elements with more modern heavy industrial and electronic twists. They call it 'original dark pop music', and that sums it up reasonably well. LILAC AMBUSH's percussive sound reminds me closest of JOY DIVISION, with a similar introspective vibe, dramatic vocals, and a seamless rock/electronic union. 'Virtual' has a blippy club/synthpop vibe ala classic SOFT CELL, which scores a few points. Other tracks feature female backing vocals which are also a nice accent, The 'Blue Sky Mix' of 'Tension', which closes out the album, shows that this group aren't afraid of the dancefloor, either. It's a solid and interesting combo when it all gels, and I can easily see these guys making some heads turn with some publicity. Here's to hoping this gathers them the listeners they so deserve. (Twisted Spinach)
Lilac Ambush - "Four Stories EP" CDR - This Massachusetts-based duo continues to evolve on this 4-song EP. The 80s references are still detectable, but the hyped-up Ian Curtis-meets-KMFDM aggro dance/rock sound of the opening track, 'Unreal', proves that these guys are intent on moving far beyond the 'retro' tag. 'Need Versus Want' is another similarly catchy and driving tune that packs a nice punch with solid programming and a vocal line that gives larger acts a serious run for their money. The third cut, 'Endless Dawn', seems less effective, balancing heavy guitars and thumping club beats and more JOY DIVISION-ish vox that seem to be somewhat lyrically clumsy in spots. 'Summer's Problem' dives into more exotic waters--moving into a slower, more experimental vein that reminds me of (unjustly) forgotten Independent Project acts like MUMBLES. LILAC AMBUSH have their sights set high with 'Four Stories' and I admire that they transcend tags like 'goth' or 'industrial' and seem to be working in their own unique direction. I, for one, am anxious to see where the next release takes them. Superb work! (Twisted Spinach)
Lilac Ambush - "Fragile EP" CDR - A fine set of 4 tracks that harken back to a sort of 80s-goth-pop sound, complete with strong melodies and moody, atmospheric guitarwork. The opening track, 'Dead Wood' has a driving rock sound that holds up well against such stalwarts as JOY DIVISION, THE CURE, RED LORRY YELLOW LORRY, or early XYMOX. 'Fragile' is a more modern-sounding cut that uses an cool shuffling breakbeat for an almost trip-hop sound, and with an even catchier vocal line. 'Pendulum' is a synthpop track that brings back those days of innocence and wonder, while the closer, 'Crossfire Junction' is a dirgey song that isn't quite as effective as the previous three. Nonetheless, quite a strong showing for this young Massachusetts-based band. I see a bright future ahead, with an eye on the past and a foot in the future. (Twisted Spinach Records)
Limbo-Sein Und Zeit CD-Strong Italian hardbeat from a veteran artist whos apparently the vocalist for the reformed PANKOW. Tense, horrific, COIL-esque soundtracks like 'Attenere e tacere' mingle with hard rhythmic tracks that are similar to, well, early PANKOW (editing by that groups FM may be responsible). Quality work. (Discordia)
various-"The Linked Dreams Of Lonely Moons" CS-An apt title, as this 60-minute comp includes some excellent and hallucinatory waking-dream sounds from THE DROWNINGBREATHING, DUST, LUSTER, KLIMPEREI, JARBOE/PFRENZ-C, KIRCHENKAMPF, and more. Most of these artists create moody atmospheric electronic sounds, simulating a dense fog permeating your subconscious. A cohesive and worthwhile collection. (Vuzh)
Linus Project-Train Over Thoughts CD-The horribly cheesy cover art obscures this disc of spacy and pedestrian symphonic prog-synth music. Overcomposed. (Spharenmusik)
Liquid Sex Decay "Liquid Sex Decay" CD-Former members of APPARATUS NC comprise this new group, and this debut release far surpasses their previous band's electro-rock sound. LSD still mine the harsh electronic fields, but move deeper into a more sinister, atmospheric direction (with regards for PUPPY or DOWNLOAD) that combines experimental, noise, and nearly techno-ish sounds. A superior album, much better than I anticipated, with great production and a wide and varied palette of sound and texture. (MJ-12)
Lithium-"Insect" CDR-This 3-song demo from Johnny Hagel (an ex-member of Swedish goth-metal act TIAMAT) jumps right into the industrial-rock fray with a solid combination of electronic programming and heavy guitar chug. And while the sound isn't all that unique (bringing to mind stuff like DIE KRUPPS and NIN), LITHIUM's production and songwriting skills are definitely honed to a professional level and worthy of label support. I have no doubt you'll be hearing these guys on a larger label one of these days. (Lithium)
The Living Jarboe'"Disburden Disciple" CD-Yet another new leaf turned by this always-diverse and uniquely personal artist , 'Disburden' shows a sort of move towards a more rock-oriented sound in spots, but with enough unusual instrumentation and exotic textures to subvert the 'rock' tag irrevokably. Middle-Eastern percussion and sounds show themselves in select tracks that were partially recorded during Jarboe's recent visit to Israel, and overall 'Disburden Disciple' runs the gamut from gentle fragility to voracious malevolence. 'Bound' begins things off with an odd electronic beat which eventually turns into a full-blooded rock raveup. From there it's odd subversions of the blues ('Dear 666'), sinister gothic tales (in the true sense of the word), and fanciful, impassioned near-acapella songs ('The Seance', which heralds back to Jarboe's haunting work with Skin). 'Consume Me' is a gorgeous acoustic song that shimmers with majestic sorrow. 'Pure War' is a trance state, blending looped chants with Middle Eastern percussion and a spoken tale (in Arabic, thanx J). Beautiful and mysterious. It must also be said that this self-released CD boasts some of the most attractive packaging and design I've seen lately. So kudos and congrats to Jarboe and her team for a release that impresses in it's scope, vision, and ultimate independence! (The Living Jarboe)
Lizard Music-Fashionably Lame CD-Pitiful indie rock with a (cough,hack)BEATLES influence.(World Domination)
The London Suede - "Introducing The Band" DVD - This 2+ hour visual and audio document encompasses mostly live in 1994 performances from this influential British glam/rock act. Fronted by charismatic androgyny poster boy Brett Anderson, this group ruled the UK pop charts for a spell with their literate musical tales of wanton drug use, late night romantic liaisons, and tragic figures. Anderson's fixation on the darker sides of life, the departure of core songwriter/guitarist Bernard Butler, and the fickle UK press ultimately led them to a sort of downfall from the pop frontlines in the late 90s, but this footage shows them as a distinctive melding of glam and Britpop, from the SMITHS/Morrissey influences to the Jacques Brel/Scott Walker-ish poignance of 'Still Life'. To accompany the large (and exhausting) amount of live footage, there are also behind-the-scenes clips and some rather interesting tour films included here. A solid piece of work, essential to fans, but maybe a bit too much for the beginner. (Wienerworld/MVD)
Francisco Lopez - "Untitled (2000)" CD - This release practically defines the terms 'subtle' and 'minimalist', as evidenced by the fact that the disc was well underway before I even realized I had pushed 'PLAY' on the CD player. Beginning with the transparent and microscopic 'Untitled #107', Lopez's barely-audible brand of electro-acoustic/musique concrete incorporates what seems to be little more than silence into his creations, testing the audible limits and perception of his listeners. Some may find this an exercise in tedium and ultimately pretentiousness, but those with a keen ear and open mind can find much inspiration in these 'sounds of silence'. (Ignis)
loscil - "First Narrows" CD - Scott Morgan (aka loscil) here presents his third full-length release of unique and emotive electronic-based music. This time, Morgan utilized session work from some live musicians and then edited and integrated them into his pulsating grooves and serene ambience. loscil's sparse and crackly syncopations could be the offspring of the Basic Channel stable and drone masters like STARS OF THE LID. 'Ema' moves far beyond the usual electronic-glitch sounds as it contains a gentle and fragile melody that is as moving as anything out there. 'Brittle' is aptly-titled as it's a gorgeous percolation of soft and floaty dub/ambience. 'First Narrows' is a moving and warm slice of life that strikes a chord within. One of my favorite releases in recent times! (Kranky)
loscil - "Plume" CD - The fourth full-length release from Vancouver's Scott Morgan is a subtle, organic, and filmic experience from start to finish. Ebbs and tides of narcotic drones and slowly-developing, gradually-building melodies and barely-there electronic pulse-rhythms flow like blood through miniscule vessels. Morgan's reflective sound is contemplative and gray, accented by moments of clarity amidst the blurred tonalities and gently flowing streams of harmony. Absolutely glorious, gorgeous music that blurs the lines between the experimental and the accessable. Highest praise. (Kranky)
loscil - "Submers" CD - This second full release by Vancouver-based loscil is an impressive blending of tonal pulses, clicks, cuts, submerged techno underpinnings, and foggy ambience, perfectly fitting since each track is named after a submarine. 'Mute 3' appropriates the murky, aquatic sounds into a resonating blend of chilled soundscapes and lightly pulsing rhythms--with plenty of subtle rolling shifts and deep reverberations. 'Nautilus' approaches a sort of microscopic dub with it's bottomless bass depths and mysterious drones. 'Submers' is a masterpiece of subsonic proto-ambient dub that slowly and quietly infiltrates your psyche. Superb work! (Kranky)
loscil-"Triple Point" CD- Vancouver experimental artist Scott Morgan drops some serious minimalist electronic knowledge on this debut release for the inimitable Kranky. Opening with the very Chain Reaction-like 'Hydrogen' and 'Ampere', loscil's deep dub & bass grooves are home to numerous electronic pulses and subrhythms. However, loscil/Morgan diffrentiates his 'clicks and cuts' from others working in similar fields thru his use of melodies. Melodies that bring his otherwise very experimental sounds into a more familiar territory for heads not already attuned to stuff like POLE or the numerous others working in the fringes of so-called 'glitch' music. loscil uses these tools and brings out their inherent warmth, rather than a cold collection of computer-generated tones. A more than solid release that balances the accessable with the challenging. (Kranky)
various-Loud: Mausoleum Sampler CD-10 unbearably rank sub-80s preen-party rockers.(Mausoleum)
Love + Rockets-Sweet F.A. CD-A return of sorts to L+Rs harder, more guitar-oriented grounds(ala Express). A diverse trip and quite worth the ride. (American)
various-"Loverly Music: The Singles (1997-1999)" 2xCD-This Memphis, Tennessee indie label has been releasing a number of limited 7" singles of local acts through the last few years, and this double-disc compiles many of these onto a more convenient digital format. And, I have to say, there is a wealth of great material here, ranging from the superb and moody Bowie/Eno and Roxy covers of LORETTE VELVETTE to the country-rock of LAMAR SORRENTO. Classic Xmas-themed rock-n-roll from GREG HISKY RHYTHM METHOD is solid and professional, and THE SATYRS' 'Dying Away' is plaintive and heartfelt. JETTY WEB close out disc A with their solid, atmospheric, and instrumental post-rock. Disc B begins on a different note with the unique and warbly country sound of LUCYNELL CRATER, and PISSHORSE are cool and potent post-punk with both humor and jagged, noise-swollen guitar chops. Sure, there's some less-than-stellar work here, but more succeeds here than not, and that, friends, is a rarity. From party rock to post-rock, this comp is proof positive that Memphis has much to offer the new music world. Impressive! (Loverly)
Low-"Christmas" CS-An unexpected album of Xmas songs (both traditional and original) from Minneapolis' underappreciated minimalist rock act LOW, and hot on the heels of their recent 'Secret Name' album. The sweet drones on 'Little Drummer Boy' add an interesting modern angle to the old favourite, while other tracks range from the upbeat indie pop style of 'Just Like Christmas' to the poignant, delicate, and sensitive 'Joy To The World'. LOW present a homespun, honest, and beautiful take on the holiday season, and magically transport the holiday from the crass commercialism of today back to a more pure, honest time. Amidst the evercrowded sea of blank holiday muzak that hits the airwaves like clockwork every year, LOW's 'Christmas' is a shining beacon of hope under my tree. (Kranky)
Low-The Curtain Hits The Cast CD-Slow, classy, and beautifully sad indie rock that brings bands like SLINT, GALAXIE 500, or MAZZY STAR to mind. Very enjoyable work. (Caroline)
Low-"Secret Name" CD- LOW's brand of mellow acoustic rock recalls the quiet, sparse moments of bands like the VELVET UNDERGROUND or GALAXIE 500 at times, but LOW are not simply VU-copyists. The dual vocal team of Alan Sparhawk and Mimi Parker create sad and hauntingly fragile music that is pure and honest. LOW's minimalist approach to songwriting uses every nuance and sound sparingly and for maximum impact. I hesitate to even call Low "rock", as their music seems to place them a little higher on the evolutionary scale. An excellent work. (Kranky)
Low-"Things We Lost in the Fire" CD-This Minnesotan trio's subtle and restrained musical legacy has already been co-opted by a number of copycats and followers, yet LOW consistently prove that they are far and away the leaders. Joining sublime drones and intricate (and instantly hummable) melodies, LOW's often melancholy soundscapes emanate a refreshing sense of hope (and tunefulness). The beautiful dual-vocals of Mimi Parker and Alan Sparhawk are sensitive and complementary, while the music (including Zak Sally's bass) is raw and homespun, never slick or sterile. Their notes are rather spare and well-chosen, and despite the often minimal setup of bass, guitar, and voice, LOW's skill in producing deep and moving 'pop' songs is undeniable. 'Dinosaur Act' presents a thunderous, ponderous buildup of sorts, yet still retains an air of fragility and passion. This is pure music that is evocative and honest. (Kranky)
Low - "Trust" CD - Noted through the years for their minimalistic, proto-ambient tendencies, LOW here find themselves branching out into what can vaguely be considered more 'rock' territory, as several guest players contribute to the mix. Mixed by Tchad Blake (who is noted for working with acts like LISA GERMANO and PEARL JAM), 'Trust' still retains the stark, introspective, and sincere qualities that LOW have always been known for. But here, with tracks like the 'I Am The Lamb', which sounds similar to later-period SWANS, albeit with the brittle, sensitive vocals of Alan and Mimi, some new directions are felt. 'La La La Song' is especially poignant, with a distinct 60s sort of vibe somehow. Not to belittle the rest of the album, as this group writes consistently solid tunes and 'Trust' has 13, none of which fail in the least. 'Trust' is the sound of LOW evolving, yet managing to stay true to their own unique sound and vibe. Great songs, great sounds, great record! (Kranky)
Lucky Me-"Honeymoon Sea" CD-Strong rock sounds from a new Seattle group that includes former POSIES guitarist Jon Auer. But that's not relevant, as LUCKY ME don't echo that group's inclination towards softer and more pop-based sounds. Vocalist Nylene Schmeichel has a superb and commanding presence that ranges from softer melodics to harsher wailings. And the music is an appealing mix of basic rock drums, bass, and guitars, alongside slide guitars, subtle samples, and atmospheric effects, all adding nice accents to the pretty standard rock formula. Somehow, I'm thinking an earthier, harder, rougher, and more guitar-based SKY CRIES MARY, and "Dogfight" reminds me a little of Carla Bozulich and the GERALDINE FIBBERS. If that weren't enough to convince you of this group's viability, production is impeccable--not surprising as this was entirely produced, recorded, and mixed by Dave Ogilvie. I dig this one. (Revolution/Warner)
Lugubre-My Prayer CS-6 tracks of spacy, dark isolationist ambience from this new Italian artist who sprung from death metallers NECROMASS. Better than I expected. (Lugubre)
Lull-Cold Summer CD-M.J. Harris of SCORN doing bleak, instrumental soundtrack ambience. Chilling. (Subharmonic)
Lull-Continue CD-Another dark ambient work from Harris, this time its a continuous 62-minute track that seethes with his usual blackened atmospherics. (Release)
LUNATIC CALM-"Metropol" CD-A high-powered techno/rock crossover album that harnesses the big beat danceability of labelmates THE CRYSTAL METHOD and fuses that with an occasional rock-style vocal slant. LUNATIC CALM have the potential to cross over into the "mainstream" of the "electronica" scene, with their combination of hard midtempo grooves and melodic vocals, and yet they manage to dodge any comparisons to the oft-copied heavyweights of this style (I'll mention no names). LUNATIC CALM's thumping breakbeats and abrasive electronic effects also ooze an appealingly dark undercurrent. No complaints from me--this disc just rocks the block. (City Of Angels)
Luster-Ne Quid Nimis CS-A fine collection of instrumental experimental soundtracks, ranging from noisy chaos to dark post-industrial ambience. This one-man project uses all sorts of acoustic and electronic sources to come up with a diverse sonic sojourn. (Vuzh)