Exploring Mortality Through Music: The Equine Influence in Blonde Redhead’s Artistry

The Fragility of Mortality and Its Connection to Animals

Mortality is a delicate concept, and when intertwined with the companionship of animals, the awareness of death becomes even more profound. Relationships with animals can uplift our existence, yet their inevitable passing leaves a deep-seated pain that is often misunderstood. This emotional landscape serves as fertile ground for vulnerability and expression.

Kazu Makino and Her Equine Inspirations

For over two decades, Kazu Makino of Blonde Redhead has been drawing inspiration from her experiences with horses. The band’s 2004 debut album, Misery is a Butterfly, delves into a traumatic riding accident that left her with a broken jaw, temporarily silencing her voice. Despite its somber title, the album speaks to resilience and concludes with the upbeat track “Equus,” a reference to both the equine world and a 1970s play revolving around a boy with a fervent obsession for horses.

The Intersection of Human and Non-Human Emotions

On stage, the narrative often portrays the suffering of the animals, echoing the boy’s twisted affection that leads to harm. This dynamic raises questions about the communication barriers that arise when human and non-human worlds collide, highlighting what is lost in translation.

Mourning Through Music: “Rest of Her Life”

Makino’s connection to her horse, Harry, continues to resonate in her music, particularly in the poignant track “Rest of Her Life” from the band’s 2023 album, Sit Down for Dinner. In an interview with Tone Glow, she described an evocative image of herself on a mountaintop, yearning for an echo that responds with a different voice. This desire for connection and resonance is brought to life through a collaboration with the Brooklyn Youth Chorus, transforming the track into a shared expression of grief and longing.

The Shadow of the Guest: A Reimagined Collection

The Shadow of the Guest serves as a re-examination of Sit Down for Dinner, featuring not only the choir collaboration but also ASMR tracks and refreshed versions of older songs. This collection reflects Blonde Redhead’s ongoing practice of revisiting and expanding their musical offerings, creating a rich tapestry of sound that invites listeners to experience familiar tracks in new ways.

Curatorial Practices and Cultural Production

Throughout their career, Blonde Redhead has embraced a curatorial approach, reworking and reinterpreting their music. Their discography is filled with EPs and expanded singles that breathe new life into older tracks, showcasing their commitment to artistic evolution. From French and Italian re-lyricizing to collaborations with other artists, their creative output is a testament to the fluidity of music and its capacity for reinvention.

Investigating Expansiveness in Shadow

On The Shadow of the Guest, the incorporation of choral elements enhances the emotional depth of tracks from Sit Down for Dinner. The Brooklyn Youth Chorus adds layers of harmony and chaos, particularly on tracks like “Before” and “Via Savona.” However, the revisitation of older works raises questions about their necessity, especially in the case of “Coda,” which has been reinterpreted multiple times. Yet, the album surprises listeners with “Oda a Coda,” where the band steps aside, allowing mariachi musicians to infuse the piece with a unique blend of joy and melancholy.

Redefining Realism Through Relational Art

Critics may choose to label Blonde Redhead as curators of sound, but this designation does not diminish the authenticity of their cultural contributions. Drawing on the insights of affect theorist Brian Massumi, the band’s work can be seen as an “enactive speculation” on the nature of reality itself. Blonde Redhead’s music creates a relational project that invites listeners to traverse new emotional landscapes, offering access to previously uncharted artistic realms.

Conclusion

Blonde Redhead’s exploration of mortality and animal companionship transcends mere thematic representation; it invites deep emotional engagement and reflection. Kazu Makino’s journey, intertwined with her experiences with horses, underscores the fragility of life and the profound impact of loss. Through innovative collaborations and the reimagining of their music, they continue to challenge the boundaries of artistry, proving that every note carries the weight of its origins.

FAQs

What inspired Kazu Makino’s songwriting about horses?

Kazu Makino’s songwriting about horses is deeply rooted in her personal experiences, including a riding accident that left her with a broken jaw and influenced her ability to sing. The relationship with her horse, Harry, also serves as a significant source of inspiration and emotional expression.

How does the Brooklyn Youth Chorus contribute to Blonde Redhead’s music?

The Brooklyn Youth Chorus enhances Blonde Redhead’s music by adding rich vocal harmonies and emotional depth, particularly in the track “Rest of Her Life.” Their collaboration allows for a fresh interpretation of existing songs, creating a layered and evocative experience for listeners.

What is the significance of the album The Shadow of the Guest?

The Shadow of the Guest is significant as it re-examines and expands upon the themes and tracks from Sit Down for Dinner. The album showcases Blonde Redhead’s commitment to artistic evolution through collaborations, reimagined tracks, and new compositions that challenge traditional musical boundaries.