This is the first thing I've heard from Aram Bajakian, and to be honest I'm not sure why; the guy has an impressive list of acquaintances, having worked with Lou Red, Nels Cline, John Zorn, and many others. The Book of Transfigurations is his second collaboration with vocalist Julia Ulehla, and brings together elements of improvisation, post-rock, jazz, and Moravian folk music. It's really beautiful stuff, with Bajakian's textural guitar playing providing the perfect accompaniment for Ulehla's unpredictable and deeply emotional singing amidst occasional appearances of strings, bass, and atmospheric percussion. Will definitely be looking into both artists' work apart from this record.
Won James Won - Prozrachnik (February 17, Baba Vanga)
The first release from experimental/noise band Won James Won since 2014's Red Wedming, Prozrachnik mostly consists of utterly bizarre and terrifying collage pieces, splicing together surreal spoken word snippets, harsh bursts of noise, and mysterious samples that sound like some kind of horrifying organic matter splatting and slapping against a concrete floor. I feel like I definitely need to listen a few more times to really unpack what's happening, but I was certainly enthralled from beginning to end.
Another gem amidst the hip-hop drought I've been experiencing this year. This tape is a significant evolution from the other Has-Lo record I've heard, 2011's In Case I Don't Make It (which is excellent by the way), with more colorful and upbeat production and less introspective lyrics. It is very apparent here that Has-Lo is both a rapper and a producer; these two halves of his music always seem to be aware of what the other is doing, operating in perfect harmony. I recommend this one if you're looking for something more vibrant, and In Case I Don't Make It if you want something more moody and dusty.
The Drowned God - Moonbearer (January 10, self-released)
An excellent full-length debut for The Drowned God (I wasn't able to find out if there is any relation to the Iron Islands). Moonbearer is an intense album that attempts to merge post-hardcore and screamo with sludge metal, and mostly succeeds. The last track, "Moon", was by far my standout favorite, and kind of left me wishing that the rest of the record had incorporated the same patient and dynamic post-metal influence. Regardless, a very enjoyable listen.
