This split tape begins with a short mellotron intro that leads
into an oral discourse that alternates with unearthly synth noise, but remains
intriguing in spite of how unlikely that sounds. The narrator, as best as I can
figure, is elaborating on some secret government mind control program. Then, again, we have static synth
fused with melodic mellotron flirtations.
The track, "Limited Hangout" comprises the whole of
side one. The revealing voice continues as he elaborates on terror techniques
implemented by the U.S. at Guantanamo Bay.
The see-saw between voice and electronics continues with not too much of
either at any one time. Though this goes on for fifteen minutes, it remains
compelling and clearly mASScOMM have achieved the near impossible combining
these elements into a highly listenable piece that is both entertaining and,
dare I say, informative. High marks for side A.
Side B again is but one track, entitled "Seeking
Safety" from an artist calling themselves (himself? Herself?) +DOG+.
Immediately you feel tension as a distorted cloud of sound builds finally,
after an extended time, leveling into a continuous barrage of multi-level
oscillation. Just, after several minutes of this, as you begin to lose
interest; subtle intrusions of sound enter the sphere while all the while
maintaining the dominant turbulence that has been ongoing. While not the near
masterpiece that side A is, this track is nonetheless a brilliant fusing of
sustained distortion and underlying interplay. +DOG+ clearly has a sense of
theater and I find the casual dynamics both intriguing and engaging.
In sum, this is an excellent tape. Both artists bring it to the
table and deliver from start to finish.
It would be advisable for fans of the genre to keep a close eye
on this label and, in particular, these two artists.
The tape is packaged in a standard plastic Norelco style case
with a color insert that is quite nicely done by OktoMedia. I look forward to
more from both contributors in the future.
-Bob Zilli