An ominous post-punk atmospheric prowess lingers throughout Automatic Writhing, the new album from Washington, D.C.-based project Zabus. Aptly, the darkly impactful soundscapes complement a poignantly morose thematic pursuit, revolving around the future’s bleak uncertainty and consequent desires for escapism. Specifically, the release explores “escapism vs introspection” — pondering various mediums against the temptations of a virtual reality. Will one succumb to the tailor-made comforts of virtual reality, or be led into more organic ventures like meditation and astral projection? The lofty consciousness melds with stylish productions for a resonating success from Zabus.
“Truth Table” commences the album with a delectably eerie glow. Shimmering synths and rumbling guitars pair with a deep, somber vocal lead — resembling Bauhaus’ murmuring entrancement, within a post-punk rhythmic undercurrent that shows shades of Joy Division and The Chameleons UK. “Phantom Lens” follows with a more upfront vocal emotion and bass-y reverberation, maintaining a compelling vocal steadiness amidst the washes of synths and bass. Another standout comes in “Subculture,” whose spaciousness is haunting. Spacey, ambient effects dominate in the absence of percussion, as the “until I die,” and “I forgive you,” lyricism fuses beautifully within frequency-like intrigue.
Automatic Writhing leaves a strongly memorable post-punk imprint with its moody, dark haunts. It’s a vibe-heavy tour-de-force from the project, led by multi-instrumentalist Jeremy Moore and also comprising Alex Zorn, Johnny Wielding, and Akane Shimizu.
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“Truth Table” and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
