Rapid Review – 11/2/21

Parannoul, Asian Glow & sonhos tomam conta – Downfall of the Neon Youth: This collaborative project between a Korean Shoegaze band, a Korean bedroom pop outfit, and a blackgaze group showcase a phenomenal experience both at the forefront of experimentation and the application of shoegaze traditions. Honestly, this record is even more enjoyable and meritorious than the recent album from indie legends Deafheaven. The track Colors is the epitome of this LP, containing all the euphoric and immersive elements that made this album stand out. Crushing lo-fi guitars, quickly ascending sound effects, and interpolating synthesizers engulf the listener in this fluid yet unexpected world. The sonic aesthetic somehow evokes images of paradoxically beautiful dystopias and ruins of technology for me. Tons De Azul is also a notable track with amazing blackmetal screaming. Great project. 8-9

Deerhoof – Actually, You Can: The noise pop outfit drops a fun, 32-minute album that exemplifies its hipster-esque cover art; I’d describe it as hippy punk with a female Japanese vocalist because why not. Coming off their well-received, abrasive album Future Teenage Cave Artists, I was anticipating their next record. This new record is a bit more low-key with less noisy riffs, especially as the first half is more joyful and almost silly (probably because of the repetitious lyrical phrases). Plant Thief is a great statement track as it at least shows off their usual noise punk talent. Still an enjoyable listen. ~7

Grouper – Shade: Critically acclaimed ambient artist Liz Harris releases this interesting, shaky haze of a project. The album utilizes a unique blend of lo-fi recording, acoustic guitars, and soft vocals. The quiet singing reflects her dream pop background and the guitars reflect her folk background. Even with vocals, the quiet nature and her generally high-pitched melodies blend into the lo-fi fuzz to create ambient music. I would say the most ambient-breaking element are the guitar parts, which places this record in a weird area of purpose/audience. It’s just a solid ambient album by a clearly experienced artist. 7-7.5

A$AP Rocky – LIVE.LOVE.A$AP: Finally, one of the most influential hip-hop mixtapes of the decade is on streaming services. It is the epitome of Rocky’s original musical essence accompanied by a great bonus track.