Rating: NNN
Arachnidiscs is a small Canadian label specializing in “music for and by weirdos.” In this case, that takes the form of a split cassette (in a fur-covered case, because, of course) by solo experimental improv guitarists Beard Closet and Primate Pyramid. And as you’ve probably already guessed, this isn’t the kind of music you’ll find yourself humming in the shower, even if you are a fan. It’s ambient music that is the opposite of soothing.
Side A is one long piece by Beard Closet, which moves from soft-pulsing chiming sounds into dissonant shards of distortion and screeching ring modulation before a more peaceful (but still heavily distorted and processed) resolution. Primate Pyramid’s side of the tape is two pieces and features similar extreme guitar processing but a different approach to playing technique and composition. Arc With No Story is all about subtle textures and ominous atmosphere, while Health Collapse is a slowly shifting wall of noise and feedback.
Top track: The Erosion Of Empathy, by Beard Closet
Beard Closet/Primate Pyramid play at the Tranzac tonight (Thursday, December 19).
