RIO Drop-In Centre

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On Won James Won's latest release, The Hollow Grail, R.A.I.G show how far they are willing to go with their already unconventional repertoire. The Hollow Grail goes even further into the realms of the odd, the hard to digest, and the borderline between plain noise and music.

So, what have we here? Samplings, screaming, guitar screeching, loose track structure, weird and eerie atmosphere - all that qualifies one as "experimental." The word "noise" might also come to mind, but I’ve heard "noise" music with much less substance, so perhaps the term may not entirely encompass WJW's sound.

However distracted or aimless The Hollow Grail might sound, there is movement and goal in here. While the screaming may not be appealing to some, the “music” itself is interesting enough to counteract it. The Hollow Grail is definitely a challenge to the listener; many will surely be baffled. However, for those listeners who are used to this sort of style (or are open-minded enough to give the album a try) you’ll find some interesting ideas, whether loudly thrown at you or placed gently at your doorstep.

This album is not one to put up for passive listening. It is not an album to enjoy. This is an album to experience, to absorb, to actively look for its hidden layers, its disguised motifs and concealed musicality. Close inspection by focused listening is demanded from the listener. Concentrate and find in each track its musical or noise-y ideas; isolate the different ingredients in the seemingly chaotic situation to understand what is going on; only then can a better appreciation and even enjoyment can be achieved.

Whether or not you'll enjoy this album depends on what you want from your music. If it’s accessibility or clarity then this is definitely something to avoid. However, if challenge in music is something you like and the above mentioned styles are your bread and butter, then having a bite may very well satisfy you.

I for one enjoy their crafting of the noise/music, and compared with others from this style it does deliver more than a few good moments. There is some genuine originality and sophistication in some of the music (track 6 for example, "Disintegration Of A Unit"). It is these particular moments that make me realize WJW's talent, and hope for them to expand on those particular paths and look forward to more from them. On the other hand, other parts of the album are seemingly senseless and perhaps expendable.

In summary, a good and interesting listening experience. Brace yourself; it’s a long ride.

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Reviewer: Assaf Vestin
Added: February 6th 2008