Migrations In Rust – Two Shadows LP

NNA Tapes

Migrations In Rust is Jesse Allen whose musical pedigree includes being involved with the Red Light District collective in Queens, NY – which has included some of the best in modern experimental musicians such as Yellow Tears, Pharmakon, John Mannion, Diaphragm, DJ Dog Dick and a slurry of other side projects, solo projects and collaborations – former member of the Cathode Terror Secretion and current performer in Cowards, in addition to producing and performing under the guise of several other solo projects (Hollow Seed, Goldeater, etc). If you are familiar with those acts Allen probably does not need an introduction for you. However, if you are new to the genres his name is one that you shant forget.

The project started out in a darker vein producing heavy drone music with touches of industrial elements but with Two Shadows Allen explores new landscapes in sonic territory. This time introducing subtle rhythmic shifts in the form of deep spacious beats bringing the atmosphere into a trip-hop style. It’s a big leap for an artist who has only lurked in the shadows of noise/industrial and dark ambient music before. But Allen manages to transition quite seamlessly.

Expect fluttering glassy textures, pitch shifted whispers, and constantly swirling harmonic drones all working in unison to create a drugged-out blurred sonic landscape. Just listening to this album makes me feel whoozy and high. But also very warm and fuzzy in a safe comfortable way. It’s a unique accomplishment in mood and character that is rarely found in abstract music.

I wasn’t totally sure how I would feel about the new elements that Allen had employed into his sound but after sitting on this LP for a few months and soaking it all in I can say that I very much enjoy it. It’s different but in a good way and it makes perfect sense that a great label like NNA Tapes would bring this release to fruition given that Allen has retired from the Red Light District and now lives in New England. Excellent work and a good show of evolution for this artist and project.

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