Persimmon Mask

Merzbow's latest offering, Persimmon Mask, is a sonic behemoth that defies conventions and pushes the boundaries of experimental music. Released on 18 March 2022 via Slowdown Records, this 41-minute album is a masterclass in aural manipulation, weaving together disparate threads of drone, noise rock, and free jazz to create a dark, avant-garde tapestry.

Through its five tracks - 15-10-2159a, 15-10-819, 15-10-533, 15-9-1302, and the haunting 15-10-2159b - Radio Edit, Merzbow crafts a world of industrial-tinged soundscapes and ambient textures that are as unsettling as they are mesmerising. With its eclectic blend of genres, Persimmon Mask is an album that will appeal to fans of experimental and avant-garde music, offering a challenging yet rewarding listening experience that is quintessentially Merzbow.

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.