James Plotkin's 1996 release, The Joy of Disease, is a masterful exploration of sonic textures and atmospheric soundscapes. This 9-track album, released on the Avant label, showcases Plotkin's versatility as a guitarist, producer, and composer. With a duration of 1 hour and 1 minute, the album takes the listener on a journey through a range of genres, including free jazz, drone, and dark ambient.
The tracklist, featuring songs such as "Casual Murder", "Hung On a Line", and "Disease as a Child", demonstrates Plotkin's ability to craft complex and hauntingly beautiful music. The album's sound is characterised by its use of distorted guitars, haunting samples, and eerie silences, creating a sense of tension and unease.
As a renowned guitarist and producer, James Plotkin has worked with a variety of notable bands and artists, including Khanate, OLD, and Scorn. His extensive catalogue outside of these bands is a testament to his innovative and experimental approach to music. The Joy of Disease is a prime example of this approach, featuring collaborations with co-producer Mick Harris and artwork by Ruth Collins.
Originally released in 1996, The Joy of Disease has been praised for its unique blend of industrial, post-industrial, and illbient influences. The album's dark and introspective soundscapes have captivated audiences, and it remains a highly regarded release in Plotkin's discography. With its complex textures and haunting atmospheres, The Joy of Disease is an album that continues to reward repeated listens, offering a profound and immersive listening experience.
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