We are back with another edition of Selections, our monthly installment of sounds from the underground. This month we feature current favorites across a variety of genres from techno to black metal. See our picks below.
RAZGRAAD - The Ideology Of Pessimism (Yerevan Tapes)
Techno/Wave
Raffaele Attanasio - Remixes 1 (Letters from Jerusalem, 12")
This is the second release from the impressive vinyl only label and Remixes 1 definitely delivers. Three of the best producers today contribute their signature style to create remixes that are at the top of the class. From the devious, "pogo" production of Ancient Methods (ft. Douglas McCarthy) on "Credible Threat", to the rave madness of AnD's twist on "Eutanasia", side A starts fast. On the flip side, Headless Horseman's pitch black ride carries you into the night, closing things out with "Raijin". Pick this one up and play it anywhere. Available here.
Size Pier - The Human Face EP (RND Records)
From the artist behind one of our favorite New Brvtalism mixes, Size Pier now offers a new EP on French label RND Records. Much like his mix, the EP shows a producer influenced by the best elements of some of our favorite genres. "The Human Face" is one of the most played tracks at Brvtalist HQ and it's easy to see why. Its militant, techno infused beats seize you while the evil vocals seep into your mind. Italian favorite Vittorio Di Mango contributes a perfect remix to the track and "Dystopie" transports you to the darkest corners of the warehouse. Looking forward to more from the Parisian artist. Pick up the 12" here.
Size Pier - The Human Face (RND Records, 2017)
Experimental/Noise
RAZGRAAD - The Ideology of Pessimism (Yerevan Tapes)
Italy's Yerevan Tapes has been on a quiet roll, releasing some of the best material in underground electronics. The latest cassette from RAZGRAAD is no different as the project offers a mind-expanding work that is part ritual, part doomtronica. The six track release focuses on the extreme condition of self and the music reflects the turmoil from within. From the massive drones of "Before it Disappear" to the metallic despair of "Thaw.Breath.Light", this is one to fully absorb. Pick up your copy here.
J. De Sosa - Flesh Ochre (Summer Isle)
The L.A.-based artist has made a nice name for himself after releasing some killer material on local imprint Night Gaunt Recordings, as well as a string of stand out live and DJ sets. Flesh Ochre marks J. De Sosa's debut on Toronto's stellar Summer Isle, and it does not disappoint. Oscillating between the confines of haunting drone, post-industrial and left-field techno, the release offers a raw and honest look at the sound of now. From the pulsating machineries of "Silent Betrayal" to the cinematic paranoia of "Ransom" there is a lot to like here.
J. De Sosa - Flesch Ochre (Summer Isle)
Other New & Notable
Gerten EP (Heartworm Press)
A great surprise from the Moscow duo behind industrial outfit Manunkind. Gerten pulls from minimal synth, post-punk and the European avant garde to build a noir-ish narrative of surrealism and intrigue. The EP is a nice collection of songs from the inception of the band to present day. Get the physical copy at Heartworm Press.
Coal - "Forgive Me Mother"
The new project from Anthony Ayarcana and Oliver Kohlenberg, Coal is hard to pin down in all the right ways. Part electronic duo, part metal band, part animal, Coal comes heavy but maintains an infectious rhythm. Check out the video for their first track below and be sure to catch the live debut in Berlin on December 30th.
THROANE - Plus Une Main A Mordre (Debemur Morti)
We conclude with some outstanding black metal from France's THROANE. Plus Une Main A Mordre is the second full length from photographer/illustrator/designer Dehn Sora (BLUT AUS NORD, ULVER, DEATHSPELL OMEGA). You can add music to Sora's list of talents as this is a master work of crushing atmospheres, heartbreaking ambient and intelligent thought. While reminiscent of bands like Blut Aus Nord and Godflesh (both with excellent new records out!), THROANE is an entirely different entity that begs to be experienced. Out now on the mighty Debemur Morti.
-JRS
THROANE - Plus Une Main A Mordre (Debemur Morti)