Toxicofera is a four-track split (2 x 2) from harsh noisers Kadaver and Psychosadist. Each pair of tracks from the artist consists of a long-form Part 1 and a short, 1-2 minute Part 2. Kadaver's pair of "TAR" tracks open up the split with crushing, rolling waves of distortion. This lo-fi, no-frills approach sets the stage from second one what Kadaver's M.O. is - bring the crispy, crunching harshness. With metallic, industrial elements popping in between the noisy waves, one gets the feeling of true machine death. And, with the tracks' title, one can imagine it being a slow, sticky, suffocating demise. This suffocating vibe is put forth in the noise, too, as it feels oppressive and inescapable...in all the right ways. Psychosadist's pair, "FILTH," comes next, and while equally as brutal, takes a differing approach than "TAR." Carrying far more high-end screech and feedback, the mix of low, high, and delay bring out more dimension and expand the scope of destruction. Utilizing the space between the low, crushing distortion and the high, metallic wheeze, Psychosadist creates a noisy vortex that allows for a clearer, mid-ranged playground that is used thoroughly. Whether for warbling reflections or smashing of metallic junk, the components all work together to form a volatile, frothing noise stew. This works very well in conjunction with Kadaver's tracks and the split feels very full by having two different, but equally crushing, styles of noise on display.

 

Released jointly through 999 Cuts and Phage Tapes, Toxicofera delivers four harsh noise tracks from two passionate acts, Kadaver and Psychosadist. Bringing together two different worlds, the four pieces work together to create a very harsh whole. Available now on CD, Toxicofera is an excellent look at what makes harsh noise an effective and evocative form of artistic expression.