This experimental Norwegian trio have taken a decent stab at the drone genre, generally opting for an askew folk/jazz aesthetic rather than the subsonic metal rumblings that often accompany the style. Its opening title track gives the impression that this could be a contemporary soundtrack to "The wicker man", which is down to the unison of Kongsberg-native Hanne Hukkelberg's eerie vocals and the uneasy nature of the music itself. The second of the recording's two major pieces, "Ear/eye connector", really needs to pull something strong out of the bag and, while it's a great background piece when played at subdued volume, it's something of a disappointment when given one's full attention. It makes a fundamental mistake in the grand scheme of music -- that of the false build up that leads nowhere. For a good deal of its almost 13 minute running time the implementation of drum and sample patterns gives the impression that we're leading into one hell of a driving beat; the pulsating feedback would remain the same but with a beat over it that would just kill. Sadly, it's not the case, which renders the track a good background listener rather than a great piece of sonic genius. It's actually something that could be said of this release as a whole, with "For the working class" seeming like a pointless entry and closer "Star spangled pillow" failing to intrigue on a concentrated listen. If it's a backgrounder you're after, though, this will do the trick. Definitely! - John Norby
Viola bids farewell with one last tune after 12 years as a band and a grand total of 85 songs, including 33 given away for free during the run of their monthly Viola Music Club: http://www.violamusicclub.com/2011-12-goodbye-viola
The reason: Tommi Forsström, 1/2 of the band, is moving to the US.
I really want to like Invasionen because I'm sure that Dennis and the gang's hearts are in the right place, but I just can't shake the feeling that they're a watered-down major label co-option of gothrock and that's not good.
The new Agent Side Grinder video "Wolf hour" is now on YouTube and it is still awesome. Look for the band's new album "Hardware" to be released in February along with a full-length concert movie from the same session this was shot.
The label is apparently back in effect and will be releasing the new album "Aikaintaite" from Finnish dark folk/metal act Syven on December 6. For more info and another preview track, go here: http://www.vendlus.com/
Huntsville
