Abyss

Generally, I'm not a fan of noise recordings. Especially noise recordings done by obscure german one man bands. The increasing ease of getting your own recording software means that any fool can get a cheap mike and a pirated version of pro tools. Then, all that's required is some meaningless vocals and guitar noises and heaps of distortion plug ins.. and voila! A new noise record is made.

Luckily, this is not some cheap meaningless noise record. First thing is that this is actually quite interesting. Yeah, you will need some patience, and it is somewhat harsh, but if you enjoy some raw black metal and/or drone music then this album won't sound all that abrasive, and there's plenty of variety within this record, whether it's the fierce, droning noise of the first track, or the military parade vibe of the second. This one in particular is a powerful track indeed, and a lesson in simplicity. A few samples of Hitler (at least, that's who I'm assuming it is), some noise floating around and a huge, distorted marching beat. Short, but really freaking powerful. Awesome stuff. And I haven't even mentioned the rather pretty piano in the final song.

There's one criticism though. This album is only eleven minutes long. Granted, I didn't have to pay for it.. But still, eleven minutes long? This isn't grindcore. Perhaps I'm annoyed because this record has a really unique mood to it, and I don't want it to be over so soon. Or maybe it's because that there's some cool musical ideas in this album that could use some more fleshing out. The second song could be at least twice as long, as could the third.

Still, if my only complaint is that this record isn't long enough, then you can tell that this is a pretty excellent record. I definitely hope Black Tribe releases more albums in this vein. You should all get this!