Dive into the sonic abyss with Sumac's 2018 release, "American Dollar Bill - Keep Facing Sideways, You're Too Hideous To Look At Face On." This monumental album spans a full hour and six minutes, offering an immersive journey through a labyrinth of heavy, textured soundscapes. Sumac, known for their genre-defying approach, masterfully blends sludge metal, drone metal, stoner metal, noise rock, and doom metal into a cohesive and crushing whole.
The album's title track sets the tone with its relentless, hypnotic riffs and dissonant harmonies. Sumac's signature use of extended, droning notes and crushing low-end frequencies creates an atmosphere that is both oppressive and mesmerizing. Tracks like "I'm Over 137% A Love Junkie And Still It's Not Enough Pt. 1 & 2" showcase the band's ability to build tension and release it in explosive, cathartic waves.
Sumac's intricate compositions and dynamic range are on full display throughout the album. The band's use of repetitive, hypnotic patterns and sudden shifts in tempo and dynamics keeps the listener engaged and on edge. The album's two-part epic, "What Have I Done?" is a standout, featuring intricate guitar work, complex rhythms, and a sense of urgency that builds to a powerful climax.
Recorded on Thrill Jockey, this album is a testament to Sumac's innovative approach to heavy music. Fans of experimental and avant-garde metal will find much to appreciate in this challenging and rewarding listen. "American Dollar Bill - Keep Facing Sideways, You're Too Hideous To Look At Face On" is a powerful and immersive experience that showcases Sumac's unique vision and mastery of their craft.
Vinylscout