(Retards)Unfortunately, I am not well versed in this genre, so bare with my sub par descriptions, for I cannot reasonably compare this band to any others. Which for me, is a good thing. This Dublin, Ireland trio (who sometimes morph into a quartet when need be) play a experimental noise sound, and for about 95% is completely devoid of any musical tone or stringed instruments. The only thing holding together the chaos is the tribal like rhythms played by the percussionist who uses not only a traditional kit but other means of percussion. There is loads of electronic sampling, various drumming mediums, whistles, saxophone, a guitar used sparsely and loads of droning feedback. Throughout the four songs their isn't much vocal activity, there is really only one track that has a good amount of vocal activity.
Talk about some hellish lyrics, but what else would you expect from a band titled bracket.retards.bracket. While checking out background info on these guys, I noticed one of their previous releases came with a short story. It was some of the most tripped out shit I've read, these guys definitely go for the shock value, and their wordplay is quite good. With this album the band only has one song that has coherent lyrics. "I'll get some viagra and duct tape. I'm calling up to your house. On the kitchen lino dance floor I'll throw shapes just to get you aroused...then you'll look into my eyes and say ‘Frank; oh I've missed you so bad. Come back to me and I'll admit you inside me' and then you'll stab me in the back. AGAIN!"–Will Drum For Food. In the song Michael Caine, the vocalist pretty much just repeatedly chants the name. X Equals One features electronic droning vocals, and to my knowledge have no lyrics.
Considering how harsh and abrasive the actual music is, the record has a nice warm tone to it. The recording was done on a analog tape deck for that big fat sound. The drums sound bombastic as hell with loads or reverb, the ear piercing electronics were mixed in for maximum dissonance. The saxophone and whistles sounded good whenever they were used. They controlled the feedback extremely well. The vocals have a eerie tone about them that fits what he is doing. The perfect recording for making the listener uncomfortable.
This one has a really colorful and busy layout. There is certainly no shortage of odd miscellaneous images scattered throughout. The front cover is dominated by a blue silhouette with loads of people masquerading around with masks on. Ironically, the only person that isn't masked is Paris Hilton, who is smack dab in the middle. There is pink bar that displays the title of EP and the name of the band. Inside of the glossy cardboard sleeve is a dizzying array of band flyers and previous album artwork. All credits, lyrics, song titles and thanks are displayed on slithers of orange pasted onto the background. I especially liked the bars that said "plays best at 33rpm, plays faster at 45rpm". All 300 of this album come on high quality black vinyl.
Rating: 3.4/5
Songs Worthy of Replay: X Equals One and Will Drum For Food
Synopsis: If these guys set out to make the listener as uncomfortable as possible they have succeeded by leaps and bounds. If you turned this shit up to full max and put on some headphones, it may very well make your ears bleed. If you like different and adventurous music that travels down it's own unique and horrifying avenue, this band is for you.