SELM — dehNUNG

SELM are kind enough to ease the listener in with "InFnt 03," a dark fade into wriggling noise that sets the stage for the remaining seven tracks on dehNUNG. Pure in its noisiness, one can appreciate the fade as this isn't just a noise album, it's a tonal and textural trek. Stepping into full gear, the brothers bring pulsing electronics forth with "BtiL09," and move in a direction far from the static of the opener. More of a factory-type rhythm than something one could dance to, the almost hypnotic loops pull while the noisy blanket wraps up the listener. A bit more straightforward, "E01c2 vU" had a plodding beat with some noise on top adding a bit of syncopation, with some electronics in the back. On the sparse side of things, this one makes the four minute run time feel quite a bit longer than it would seem on paper. Some tonal carry over on "MdCn8th" gives a great lead in and the beat feels like it's just a slowed down version of the prior track as well. This allows a familiar foothold for other electronic eccentricities to dance on top, but the beat moves on, stead as she goes. Deep and dark, the fifth number here, "CdM9th b" hits low with its bass pulses and feels like the arrival of Leviathan. Pulling from the lethargic pace prior, this one is all about pulling in and dragging down, smothering with its intense weight. "oBviR nR2" adds some much-needed brightness, although that term is used loosely. Bright comparatively, what sounds like toy horns or a Beatles sample breaks through the hovering throb, like moonlight through thick clouds. Although dank and heavy, this one still manages to move at its own pace, perhaps spurred on by the travelling sideshow music peaking through. The darkness plays well, and "MEdleC5" brings up some dank noise and rough rhythm. Industrial at its core, this track is a highlight for the oil-soaked, hedonistic robot in all of us. Closing out the album, "NranSz e3" bookends with the first track's approach, and the noise fades us out into the night. That's not without bringing some snaky, sharp synths to get under the skin and keep the album playing on in our minds long after the speakers have stopped. 

 

dehNUNG is a bit of industrial intrigue that moves along pretty well, packed with beats, textures, noise, and some dark mayhem. Though it may get a bit sluggish in the middle, it's worth sticking around to hear SELM work their way out and craft an engaging album. Crank it up and let the sounds take you where your mind allows.