SunnO))) comments on metal by focusing on feedback that is most definitely present in the genre. By stretched repetitive rhythms, it seems to be harnessing what many would refer to as the essence of this particular genre… an atmospheric primordial heaviness. SunnO)))’s droning can also be read as an articulation of what comes after metal, a post-apocalyptic space in which all that’s present is the essence in residual form. I would assume that the first reading seems to be more appropriate as SunnO))’s effect on the spectator is direct and extremely visceral, almost like a worship ritual that resurrects the uses of metal as a genre.
The second reading is more contingent with Kevin Drumm’s Imperial Distortion. But rather than a feedbacking and buzzing post-metal space, Drumm utilises a hushed looming of synth like sounds… A fade away rather than the explosive attempts of SunnO))). Meditative absorption rather than an in your face visceral attack. The eerie atmosphere that lingers throughout this record is in line with the murky subaltern faces of metal. What is most problematic about Imperial Distortion is its conclusion. It ends off with a sudden fragmented blast of noise, bringing to mind Kevin’s output in Sheer Hellish Miasma, that lasts for less than a minute, ending as abruptly as it started. A long excursion in a contemplative empty space rudely awaken by an extremely harsh sound. I am more inclined to see it as a desperate last-minute attempt, or even feedback, that inevitably falls into silence . A heightened perspective via sudden increase in volume alerting the listener to its transience in contrast to the emptiness that precedes it. In this sense, Imperial Distortion acts like an epitaph rather than crude amplifier worship (hint hint). In no way am i attempting to position Imperial Distortion as a more cultured representation of metal. But maybe this shows how SunnO)))’s output is not all gloom (which is one of the main reasons why they are so highly acclaimed). In comparison with Imperial Distortion, SunnO))) seems like a positive ritualistic worship and tribute that attempts to revitalise metal. Imperial Distortion is more gloom, death.. the end of a genre. And it is this rejection… representing metal as a corpse like body… that brings out the possibilities of new trajectories that could emerge from its ashes. Fingers crossed… that it might become undead.
