The Lambent Explosion
Another checkbox ticked: a few weeks ago, my new Horse Machines album quietly made its way to online stores and streaming platforms. I was busy with another project, so I’ve been letting it fly under the radar until now. Besides, no one’s losing any sleep anticipating these releases—Billie Eilish I am not.
This is a “song” album, as opposed to the soundscapes of the previous one, and I’m happy with the results. I think it’s an interesting mix overall. Eight tracks that clock in at around 30 minutes, which is a format I really enjoy now. There are many horrible downsides to streaming, especially in the way it has transformed our relationship to music through sheer pervasiveness; many upsides as well, which makes the issue all the more complex (I, for one, would never go back). But I love how musicians are no longer bound to a specific song or album length, if they’re willing to experiment and let go of creating a “hit” (1).
That, and being ok with a life lived under shades of obscurity—the machine may hide, but it’s hungrier and more exclusionary than ever.
If you’re interested, the album is available on Apple Music (in Lossless format, if you’re into that), Spotify (2) and too many others to mention. Basically, if you search for it, you should be able to find it.
In terms of artwork: I went back to Japan, and left the black and white of previous releases behind. There’s a PDF booklet available for download on this album page as well.
Have a great weekend :)
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All the more ironic given how so much pop music is produced.
Update: removed due to personal ethical reasons
