Liminal Spirit Unleashes Haunting EP “Unwell” with Microtonal Guitar Playthrough
Introduction to Liminal Spirit
Milwaukee-based avant-garde progressive doom project Liminal Spirit is the creative endeavor of multi-instrumentalist Jerry Hauppa, who is also known for his work with Deorbit. The project has recently launched a mesmerizing guitar playthrough video for the title track of their latest EP, “Unwell,” which was released on October 31st.
Microtonal Guitar and Atmospheric Soundscapes
The playthrough highlights Hauppa’s innovative use of microtonal guitar, a technique that significantly contributes to the alien and eerie atmosphere of the music. This approach is featured on three of the five tracks within the EP. The title track, “Unwell,” serves as a keystone of the record, encapsulating the disordered mental state of Phillip, an elderly dementia patient plagued by vengeful spirits. The track’s distorted and unsettling sound reflects Phillip’s deteriorating psyche, effectively setting the tone for the EP’s descent into horror.
Concept and Narrative
“Unwell” marks Liminal Spirit’s third EP, following their ritualistic debut and the intricate “Pathways.” This latest release combines progressive complexity with distinct song identities, weaving a cinematic tale of memory loss, guilt, and spiritual judgment.
The Story of Phillip
The EP narrates the story of Phillip, who is admitted to a nursing home by his children, Jonathon and Madeline. As his cognitive abilities fade, he becomes tormented by two ghostly children who accuse him of murder. The five tracks—Admittance, Unwell, Visiting Day, EOLC, and A Better Place—trace Phillip’s harrowing journey from confusion to damnation, culminating in his violent demise and descent into hell.
Artistic Vision and Themes
Hauppa explains, “My goal with this record is to explore ideas that represent some of my greatest fears. Given my previous experience in nursing homes from a former job, I can tell you they are the most miserable places on Earth, and I would hate to spend my final days there. I also couldn’t imagine the loss of my own faculties and have a lingering fear of spiritual judgment when passing on to the next plane.”
Musical Influences and Style
Liminal Spirit is recognized for its progressive doom and avant-garde metal style, characterized by ritualistic, story-driven compositions. Hauppa draws inspiration from a diverse range of artists, including Skepticism, Anata, My Bloody Valentine, Jesu, and Confessor. His sound transcends easy categorization, melding classic death metal with psychedelic electronic textures.
Availability and Listening Options
“Unwell” is currently available on all major streaming platforms.
- YouTube Album Stream: youtu.be/rORD2LIsavk
- Add to your Spotify Playlist: distrokid.com/hyperfollow/liminalspirit2/unwell
- Spotify Link: open.spotify.com/album/76SUwLUYOKy8qMpCrSLaCu
- Digital Download: liminalspirit.bandcamp.com
Track Listing
- Admittance (5:27)
- Unwell (6:52) (single)
- Visiting Day (8:01)
- EOLC (8:26)
- A Better Place (5:42) (single)
EP Credits
All songs were written, performed, produced, and mixed by Jerry Hauppa. The EP was mastered by Jeff Wojtysiak at Spiral Sound Mastering.
Lineup
Jerry Hauppa – Guitar, microtonal guitar, bass, violin, synth, vocoder, drum programming
Conclusion
Liminal Spirit’s “Unwell” is a profound exploration of fear, memory loss, and spiritual judgment, delivered through innovative musical techniques and gripping storytelling. As the EP takes listeners on a haunting journey through Phillip’s psyche, it solidifies Hauppa’s position as a boundary-pushing artist in the progressive doom metal scene.
FAQs
1. When was the EP “Unwell” released?
The EP was released on October 31st.
2. What is microtonal guitar, and how is it used in the EP?
Microtonal guitar refers to the use of intervals smaller than a semitone, creating unique and alien soundscapes. In “Unwell,” it is used to enhance the unsettling atmosphere of the music.
3. Who is the main member of Liminal Spirit?
The project is primarily led by multi-instrumentalist Jerry Hauppa.
4. Where can I listen to Liminal Spirit’s music?
You can listen to their music on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify and YouTube.
5. What themes are explored in the EP?
The EP explores themes of memory loss, guilt, spiritual judgment, and the fears associated with aging and mental decline.
