Nadja / Black Boned Angel

Having these two notable monikers teaming up for a second collaboration is just right up my alley, particularly because their previous collaborative effort, Christ Send Light is one of my favorite recordings from both Nadja and Black Boned Angel thus far. This second effort (actually recorded around the same time as their previous collaboration) is two pieces of sonic manipulation that only both of these outfits can produce, and my big question is whether or not this one can stand up just as well as Christ Send Light.

Where this second collaboration between Nadja and Black Boned Angel excels is the manner in which it offers some eerie type of rumination on gothic horror and quiet malice. Lots of tones sit just barely within the realm of human hearing where one has to really crank the volume in order to hear while the actual compositions seem more at peace with quiet (an interesting sonic effect or technique to say the least). The first composition is full of tension and a dark foreboding but never quite tips over into the realm of having a hint of real terror, thus adding to the tense mood created by the guitars, electronics, and sometimes drums. The second track (following a seamless transition from the first) is just as subtle in its execution as its partner with its rolling soundscape and low humming creating a creepy effect and completely mesmerizing experience (like a horrific image from which one simply cannot look away).

Even though this second collaboration between Nadja and Black Boned Angel is not as grandiose or triumphant sounding as its companion release, Christ Send Light, this album is a more subtle animal that offers a bit more of a hypnotizing listening experience. Certainly, the album comprises a mammoth sound of swirling guitars, humming reverberation, and well placed drums that all seem intent on entrancing listeners in a bit of an “otherworldly” experience. The artwork for this album is similarly a collaboration, only in this case between the artists Stephen Kasner (Integrity, Sunn 0))), Pale Creation, etc) and David D’Andrea (Witchcraft, Samothrace). A completely worthwhile time spent listening to the around fifty minutes of soundscapes is in store for any adventurous soul that checks out Nadja / Black Boned Angel.

8.0 / 10 — Bob