Dead Machines - Human Brain Wasting Syndrome - LP (2004)

Labels: Ecstatic Peace
Review by: Chris Bress

This blasts off like the steam train in the Signalman, and it is just as spooky. “œHuman brain wasting syndrome” drones throughout but it filters in and out of ambient noise, a lazy comparison would be Merzbow when he’s not full-on blastathon. The Dead Machines also owe much to The Hafler Trio, Nurse With Wound and Colin Potter’s work, quiet droning builds that vibrate and flutter like a thunderstorm. It’s also not too far off from some of Olson’s work with his group Wolf Eyes, albeit without the metal thumps. I find this record compelling and addictive but I wouldn’t recommend it to someone looking for aggressive noise-rock like Hair Police and Wolf Eyes due to the lack of rhythm. It’s a much more laid back affair almost made to read to.