If you prefer your electronica devoid of sunshine and rainbows, World Eater is certain to have the dark and twisted thrills you desire. However, you’ll also need to be a more patient listener than I am.
One half of synthlord twosome Fuck Buttons, Benjamin John
Power (AKA Blanck Mass) is now on his third solo album – and he’s still an
artist proudly in his own lane. Gunshot-like snares, lurching sub-bass and
music box twinkles make up these heaving digital earthmovers. There are no
hooks to speak of – whilst there are vocal samples sprinkled throughout, they’re
so chopped and screwed that they may as well be alien sounds.
Opener ‘John Doe’s Carnival Of Error’ is a creepy merry-go-round
theme that distorts into noise, segueing into aggressive industrial eardrum assault
‘Rhesus Negative’. It’s a thrilling start to the record that takes no
prisoners, likely to terrify and confuse Calvin Harris fans, but certain to
challenge and excite disciples of EDM’s more avant-garde side.
Unfortunately, Benjamin swiftly reveals his love of the
Aphex Twin doctrine – which is to say he loves elongating tracks beyond the six
minute mark. Previous album Dumb Flesh
suffered a similar affliction, although the likes of ‘Dead Format’ felt more
immediate. Many of the tracks here plod on too long for focused listening,
whilst ‘Minnesota/Eas Fors/Naked’ is blatantly ambient.
With some condensing, this could be stronger stuff. I’ll
definitely be dipping back into World
Eater for individual tracks, but for a full listen it’s better suited as a
background piece for playing a scary horror game to or practicing live
taxidermy to or whatever freakish hobbies you have.
★★★☆☆
TRACK TASTER: