🎵 Tracklist:
Track 1: Pain Equals Funny
Track 2: Working the Ditch
Track 3: She’s Got Weird Arms
Track 4: Allergic to Food
Track 5: Smiler
🎸 Album Review:
‘Tarantula Heart’ by The Melvins is a sonic whirlwind that encapsulates the band’s signature blend of sludgy, heavy riffs and experimental, boundary-pushing tendencies. Released in 2021, this album showcases the band’s continued evolution and willingness to defy genre conventions. Across its five tracks, ‘Tarantula Heart’ delves into themes of pain, absurdity, and unconventional beauty, creating a unique listening experience that is simultaneously unsettling and captivating.
The album kicks off with “Pain Equals Funny,” a track that sets the tone for the rest of the record with its grinding guitar riffs and ominous atmosphere. Buzz Osborne’s distinctive vocals weave a tale of twisted humor amidst the cacophony of pounding drums and distorted bass lines. The juxtaposition of dark lyrics with the band’s raw energy creates a sense of unease that permeates the entire album.
“Working the Ditch” follows, showcasing The Melvins’ ability to create tension and release within a single track. The song builds steadily, layering dissonant melodies over thunderous rhythms before erupting into a chaotic frenzy of noise. Dale Crover’s drumming shines on this track, providing a solid foundation for the band’s experimental tendencies to flourish.
“She’s Got Weird Arms” is a standout track that highlights The Melvins’ knack for crafting unconventional song structures. The song meanders through shifting dynamics and unexpected twists, keeping the listener on edge throughout. The eerie guitar work and haunting vocals create a sense of unease that lingers long after the track ends.
“Allergic to Food” delves into themes of bodily decay and disgust, with lyrics that paint a vivid picture of revulsion and decay. The song’s relentless heaviness is punctuated by moments of eerie calm, creating a sense of disorientation that mirrors the album’s overall atmosphere of unease.
The album closes with “Smiler,” a sprawling epic that showcases The Melvins’ ability to create vast sonic landscapes within a single track. The song unfolds gradually, building layer upon layer of distorted guitars and pounding drums before reaching a cathartic climax. The haunting melodies and surreal lyrics culminate in a mesmerizing finale that leaves a lasting impression.
In comparison to The Melvins’ previous albums, ‘Tarantula Heart’ stands out for its willingness to push the boundaries of their sound even further. While the band has always been known for their experimental tendencies, this album takes their sonic exploration to new heights. The unconventional song structures, discordant melodies, and dark lyrical themes all contribute to a sense of unease that sets ‘Tarantula Heart’ apart from the band’s earlier work.
Overall, ‘Tarantula Heart’ is a challenging and rewarding listening experience that showcases The Melvins’ continued relevance and creativity. The album’s dark, unsettling atmosphere and experimental tendencies make it a standout addition to the band’s discography. Fans of heavy, boundary-pushing music will find much to appreciate in the twisted beauty of ‘Tarantula Heart.’