“Growing Eyes Becoming String,” the sixteenth studio offering from the illustrious noise-rock pioneers The Telescopes, is a rediscovered gem that transcends time and space. Recorded in 2013 and rescued from the clutches of a hard-drive crash, this album showcases a side of The Telescopes that was nearly lost to oblivion but has now emerged with unparalleled vigor. From the opening notes, it’s evident that The Telescopes have once again breathed fresh air into the noise-rock genre. The ability to gradually shape a complex, cathartic wall of sound that oozes with rawness, fuzziness, and melodic brilliance exemplifies their unwavering dedication to pushing sonic boundaries. The album is a mesmerizing journey through realms of noise, dissonance, and experimentation, guided by clever song structures, melody, and harmony.
The Telescopes’ signature usage of repetitive, addictive, and hypnotic riffs creates a tranquil yet entrancing ambiance, offering a relaxing and ethereal experience for the listener. The lead vocal harmonies, a key player in shaping this mesmerizing atmosphere, act as a guiding force through the expansive and longevous compositions, while the heavily distorted leads, themes, melodies, and chord progressions serve as the perfect canvas for the outstanding lead vocals, weaving a sonic tapestry that captivates from start to finish. What sets “Growing Eyes Becoming String” apart is The Telescopes’ ability to expertly navigate between profoundly melodic segments and heavier, aggressive passages. The album caters to a diverse audience, appealing to both fans of soothing melodies and those craving a more powerful sonic experience. This dynamic range showcases the band’s mastery of their craft, ensuring that even the pickiest listeners will find something to appreciate in the sonic landscape they’ve created.
The low-ends delivered via semi-distorted bass provide the necessary heaviness, clarity, and depth, acting as a binding force that ties together the intricate layers of guitars and drums, while the outstanding drumming performance dictates the groove and pace with well-accentuated beats, breaks, and percussive acrobatics, adding another layer of complexity to the material. The Telescopes venture into new territories by introducing subtle keyboard and synth leads, themes, and ambiance, injecting a psychedelic feel that elevates the overall complexity of the album. Each track is a sonic adventure, carefully crafted to immerse the listener in a multi-dimensional experience that goes beyond the traditional confines of noise-rock.
While it’s challenging to single out standout moments in an album where the entire material sounds magnificent, “Growing Eyes Becoming String” beckons to be enjoyed in one seamless sitting. These seven tracks flow seamlessly, creating a cohesive narrative that demands undivided attention. The Telescopes have not just released an album; they’ve given us an auditory masterpiece that reaffirms their status as noise-rock legends, pushing boundaries and leaving a memorable mark on the genre. “Growing Eyes Becoming String” arrives on a milky clear and milky clear with black splatter vinyl variants, but you can also purchase it on CD or listen to it via streaming platforms. Head to the Fuzz Club web store for more information about ordering.
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