Label: Quarterstick Format: CD
Rachel’s may be the logical conclusion of the tradition of Tortoise and Slint. This is not to say that they sound like either of these bands, but rather that one may trace an evolution in contemporary American music from a highly developed No-Wave to an end of millennium conservatoire music. Of course this music is not really specifically millennial either and at its best achieves the still point of timelessness although it is neither traditional nor futuristic. Pieces may arise as naturally from drum machine patterns (refreshingly played as drum machines rather than simulations of drums), or string trios as they might from guitar riffs or harpsichord motifs.
Their previous work has included a disc about sailing ships and music for a theatre work on the life of Egon Schiele. The latest album Selenography (presumably related to Selene of the moon) retains something of the nautical feel both in its packaging and in their gentle rolling rhythms. Their has an intelligence and a seriousness and errs towards warm or elegaic tonalities, although pieces such as “The Disappearance of Louis LePrince” evokes an absurd post-modernist mystery thriller theme and the whim is indulged with satisfying ridiculousness.
Perhaps what we are seeing here in this transformation from post-rock to neo-chamber music is a school of musicians no longer fettered by the cult of youth hysteria. The failures of popular culture and the consequent dumbing down of the media have made prepackaged teen rebellion laughable. Many of the more interesting artists will feel that the cutting edge be found in depth, craftsmanship and experience rather than the quick thrill. If the results are anything like this album many listeners will follow.
-Iotar-
