As Terence Hannum's primary project Locrian continues its transition from a small drone project to a more diverse and recognizable behemoth on a large label, recording in major studios, Via Negativa thematically functions as a "remembering his roots" record. Recorded alone in his basement studio, the DIY ethos of his early days is obviously present, but the music is as professional as it comes.
This "look back" concept has been a part of Hannum's visual work as of late as well, some of which adorns the gatefold of this LP.The patterns and images created from cutting up magnetic cassette tape is surely no accident:Hannum and I are the same age, and I can only assume it is a conscious effort to revisit the de facto audio format of his youth.
In the same way, the three pieces that make up this album (with a fourth digital bonus one that would not fit on the LP) follow the same theme.Retreating to his basement with synth collection in tow, the sound of this record is unsurprisingly reminiscent of parts of Locrian proper.It works like the distillation of the keyboard heavy progressive rock tendencies of that band, one that has never shied away from name checking early Genesis and King Crimson in their influences.Also, I cannot help but visualize Hannum standing behind his racks of gear, complete with a homemade gold lamé cape to fully channel his inner Rick Wakeman.
The lead piece, "Become More, Become Less" (undoubtedly another variation on the album’s theme) introduces the album with an appropriate darkness.Spooky electronic noises and deep bass mix with Hannum's monastic chanting, his voice acting as an additional instrument than vocals in the traditional sense.The intentional dark and creepy vibe is fitting, and the piece ends with a tasteful elongated synth drone.
The mood and tone varies by the time "If Only You Knew What Darkness I am Plunged Into" comes around.Retaining the deep bass with shimmering keyboard waves, I was reminded of the electronic score to Apocalypse Now and hints of John Carpenter’s classic 1980s soundtracks.Minimalism and repetition feature heavy throughout its near 16 minutes, but the subtle variations and use of vocals result in a minimalism that is clearly artistic direction and not laziness by any means.
"Unapproachable Light," on the other side of the record, has a most befitting title.Working with heavy church organ passages and rich, complex surges of sound, a holy music vibe is prominent throughout the piece, akin to Arvo Pärt loading up on electronics rather than writing classical-focused compositions.The digital-only "The Ideal Forms" comes off as an extension of this.More immediate in its intensity, the mix of subtlety and monolithic walls of sound is powerful, and builds to a dramatic conclusion.
Hannum's influences shine through clearly on Via Negativa, a throwback album that manages to not at all bask in self-importance or pretense.Locrian have not hit that Spinal Tap-esque misdirection that often precedes a release of this nature, nor do I think things will take that turn for the trio.Instead, it is strong work that does what a good solo album should, namely showcase the individual's contributions to a band, and take that in directions that may not fit in the main project.
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