Cheval Ouvert consists of 4 tracks simply titled I-IV. I have to admit right out the gates this is a lot heavier than I was expecting. While their sound escapes easy definition, it is without a doubt a caustic blend of sludgy drone metal, free jazz-esque drumming and psychedelic electronics. “I” features syrupy bass guitar droning and thunderous drumming with electronics and sax that are distinguishable, but hang out in the back drop. Track “II” picks up the pace with brisker bass and drum with some haunting synth work weaving it’s way through the piece. Truth be told, this track almost has a black metal feel to it. Track “III” is certainly a most subdued piece on the album, but this also really allows the sax shine through. The final track has starts off with spritely synth work blinking on and off, nicely balancing the heavier drones and saxophone wails.

In addition to the sounds presented I have to say I’m also really digging the cover art. It’s all red line art on a white cover. It features a horse with syringes sticking in it exploding drawn cartoon-style. It’s strangely gruesome yet, playful.

Cheval Ouvert is an eclectic mix of sounds not normally present in heavy drone music. The sax and electronics really stands out for me and make this a memorable album. One that certainly merits further investigation.