Indiana’s Eeltionnath comes billed as black metal, but this one-man act is much closer to power electronics/noise. Some blackened textures crop up, but this EP is mostly swathed in digital distortion. I’m not a fan of digital distortion, and it took me a while to fight past it here. But once I did, I discovered intriguing angles and melodies. MZ412 comes to mind a bit, and occasional electronic beats recall Skinny Puppy side project Download.
Rise of the Black HoardDestroy Thy Satan
Eeltionnath is Thaniel Ion Lee, one of the more interesting artists I’ve come across. His bio states, “My work is about my life as a person with a disability.” Lee has arthrogryposis, which has left him with no biceps and no kneecaps, limited use of fingers and one arm, and the inability to straighten his hands and legs. However, Lee has been more productive than most able-bodied people, amassing a portfolio of painting, photography, and digital art that’s been exhibited across the States. He also runs Artist Black Music, “a label specializing in drone, noise, post-rock, and experimental music.”
The label’s mission is “to release sound that is both damaged and beautiful.” This EP isn’t on the label, but it fulfills this mission. Most noise music is, well, noise to me, but Lee sneaks in lush pads reminiscent of Vangelis’ work for Bladerunner. He juxtaposes them with harshly edited and effected vocals, as well as slightly techno-esque beats. However, a dense digital cocoon both unifies and obscures these elements. Unpack this exterior, and you’ll find a very active mind inside.
This EP is available for free download here until March 20.
Downloaded this from their site, seriously challenging listen. To be honest it took my until some of the later tracks to pick up anything but distortion in most of them, but can definitely sense more listens will bring out the hidden elements. Always up for a challenge!
because of moving delays im keeping the EP up til the end of the summer.
-t