Mukomodulator

Merzbow's latest endeavour, Mukomodulator, is a sonically intense and deeply immersive experience that spans 45 minutes of unrelenting soundscapes. Released on 19 February 2024 via Slowdown Records, this album is a testament to Merzbow's unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of experimental music.

Through the three tracks - Contraption 1, Petara 2020, and Petara B - Merzbow masterfully weaves together a complex tapestry of drone, noise rock, and free jazz elements, punctuated by the dark, foreboding undertones of dark ambient and industrial music. The result is a truly avant-garde soundscape that defies easy categorisation, instead embracing the chaos and unpredictability that has come to define Merzbow's unique artistic vision.

As the album unfolds, Merzbow's signature blend of discordant textures and hypnotic rhythms draws the listener into a world of unbridled sonic experimentation, where the conventions of traditional music are gleefully subverted and the possibilities of sound are reimagined. With Mukomodulator, Merzbow once again asserts his position as a pioneer of the experimental music scene, and invites listeners to join him on a journey into the uncharted territories of the avant-garde.

Merzbow, the brainchild of Japanese musician Masami Akita, is a titan in the world of noise music, having started his sonic journey in 1979. With over 500 recordings to his name, Merzbow is renowned for his harsh noise music, but his discography spans a wide range of genres, including drone, experimental, and industrial. Akita's work is not just about loud, chaotic sounds; it's about creating immersive, often visceral experiences that push the boundaries of what music can be. Influenced by dada art and junk aesthetics, Merzbow's music is a reflection of Akita's unique perspective, blending elements of psychedelic rock, free jazz, and dark ambient into a sonic landscape that is entirely his own. Whether you're a seasoned noise music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Merzbow's extensive catalog offers a wealth of sonic adventures waiting to be explored.