Anatema, despite the name, is not a curse and should not be cast out by anyone interested in serious post-rock. Labirinto (not to be confused with Italian metal band Labyrinth) weaves a tapestry (or maze, ha!) of strings, clean and distorted guitars, a few drums, and an occasional banjo. Band leader and songwriter Erick Cruxen blends the most pure musical parts of Godspeed You! Black Emperor, the plotting picking of Explosions In The Sky, and a few assaulting moments worthy of Russian Circles. While maybe none of this sounds wholly original, there is a unique world music hint in each song that being from Brazil no doubt provides. This being their first full-length release also leads one to believe that the band has the potential to rank among these highly regarded groups.
The album sounds great and uncluttered. It was recorded at Steve Albini’s Electrical Audio by house engineer Greg Norman and mixed by Shellac bandmate Bob Weston. There are only six songs, each clocking in at over ten minutes. This does not make for a quick, easy listen. There are layers and pieces that have to be absorbed in totality to be appreciated. The packaging further reinforces the impression that the band is interested in creating a more full experience than the average album listening. Each song is represented with its own original artwork and with a triple album, the effect inspires awe. So, if you have 70 minutes to spare over the holidays, lock yourself away and soak Anatema in. The band was kind enough to provide a free download of their album on the website so what do have to lose, except your mind?
