I was looking forward to the No Age album all summer. Every album they release is a huge step forward not just for them, but for music in general. You can call that an overstatement all you want: go ahead. Done? Personally, I have a hard time thinking of many bands today that are making such impressive albums on a consistent basis. While the albums are great alone, they seem to build on their predecessors and use that starting point to make something more dynamic and engaging for listeners. They hone their songwriting each time out and manage to make more melodic and accessible albums without simultaneously making their music sound poppy. For instance, this album has friggin strings on it (would you ever expect that after the first two No Age albums?) and they pull it off in inspiring fashion. Shit, I'd even say its the best track on the album. The same song, also features what sounds like a real live bass guitar, hinting that maybe the duo will opt for more drum and bass live jams in the future. However, I won't be able to catch them at the Empty Bottle September 14th due to a wedding in Madison, WI. As usual, I'll see if I can make another show in the region but I literally have like 6 weddings to go to in the next two months. Anyway, here is that song I was talking about. It is called "An Impression" and closes out the first side of the LP.
An Impression.mp3
Even though I was salivating over the thought of a new No Age album for the last several months, I got distracted by the Destruction Unit album since they both came out on the same day. After tracking down a copy of the old D-Unit split with Black Sunday then catching the Marshstepper show last month, I started getting all into the Ascetic House dudes and I had August 20th circled as the day "Deep Trip" came out so guess I neglected to sear the No Age release date into my mind. Also, I'm sure it didn't hurt that Sacred Bones sent that friendly newsletter to remind us when their new albums were coming out. I'm sure SubPop sent me a reminder as well but they're newsletters are über cluttered and hard to sift through with a roster that massive. This album is a ripper indeed and while nothing at all like Marshstepper, it is a 8 solid tracks of rampaging art-punk. I'd say post-punk but really its way too fucking punk to be post anything. The packaging is incredible and while I don't want to spoil too much, I'll just say that I am still not 100% convinced there are no psychedelic enhancers tucked inside the sleeve somewhere. I don't really have a standout favorite from this record so I'll just put the finale up ("Night Loner") as it gives listeners the best chance to gather a clear idea of what the album is all about.
Night Loner.mp3
They are on tour with various bands this summer but will not be gracing Chicago with their presence this time around. If you live elsewhere, check the show listings page at the Sacred Bones site. And here's a video they did last year.
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