Fuzz

Fuzz

Written by: BV on 06/10/2013 19:13:28

It seems much too easy these days to label Ty Segall as the forerunner of a new generation of garage-rock visionaries. However, the tag of prolific songwriter is one that is not only deserved, but also increasingly difficult for him to avoid. Perhaps that’s why Fuzz, the latest project in which he is involved, started off rather anonymously. Naturally, it didn’t take long for people to figure out who was really doing the vocal work though, as the man has quite the characteristic voice. What is different, however, is that Segall is behind the drum-kit this time, rather than at the forefront blasting guitar-riffs at the listener with lightning speed. No, Fuzz is something completely different from what Segall usually does. The trio, consisting of Charles Moothart (guitar), Ty Segall (drums & vocals) and Roland Cosio (bass) treads in the same deliciously fuzzy waters of Segall's previous endeavors, but does so in a slightly lengthier version that is much more prone to fuzzed out jams and long – and I mean really long - instrumental sections as opposed to the otherwise concise garage-fuzz that is usually found within this spectrum.

That Charles Moothart is quite the guitarslinger is really no secret – as opening track “Earthen Gate” kicks in with an eerie intro, Moothart’s guitar quietly noodles around for a minute or so, before unleashing a plethora of fuzzed-out outbursts of pure, untamed energy along with Segall’s utterly insane drum-pounding. The vocal howls of Segall cut their way through the already packed mix, sending the signal that not only are they exceptionally great noise-makers - they are also quite keen on the audibility, as no instrument seemingly gets left behind in the mix.

With the feedback-laden intro of “Hazemaze” the fuzz seems abundant, bordering the endless, and these frenetic outbursts of utterly insane riffs are enough to have me banging my head like a complete fool as I’m sitting here alone writing this review. The pure energy of the record is magnificently contagious and I’m finding it increasingly hard to resist. Yet, as I reach the fifth track of the album, “Loose Sutures”, for what must be the 10th time, I’m finding the album to begin sounding rather monotonous at times. Fuzz constantly plays around with the structure, always seeking to push the boundaries a tiny bit further on the instrumental sections as they seek to extend their playful attitude on to the listener. However, it is not always successful as this abundance of untamed fuzz-tones becomes rather monotonous in itself with too few quiet(er) passages where the listener can recuperate from the brutal onslaught that this album really is.

In essence though, I think it’s fair to say that Ty Segall is not the sole reason that this album is a successful debut, as the other members carry just as much of it on their shoulders. However, Segall’s prior success might reflect positively on this album. – As it should, since the album deserves it. This is nothing less than a solid debut from a downright solid band.

8

Download: Hazemaze, Earthen Gate, loose Sutures, Raise
For The Fans Of: Ty Segall Band, Thee Oh Sees, Epsilons
Listen: facebook.com

Release Date 01.10.2013
In The Red


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