Exploring “Seeking Darkness”: Huremic’s Debut Album

Introduction to Huremic

Huremic, a side project of the enigmatic South Korean artist Parannoul, has made its debut with the album “Seeking Darkness.” Known for their unique soundscapes, Parannoul’s work continues to intrigue listeners, and this secondary project is no exception. Accompanied by minimal information, the album’s Bandcamp description highlights its use of a Korean traditional music virtual instrument sound source library developed by the Seoul National University Arts and Science Center. Among the eclectic sounds, an elephant’s trumpet stands out, setting the tone for the album’s unconventional approach.

Sound Design and Composition

The Role of Unconventional Sounds

True to Parannoul’s reputation for blending various musical elements, “Seeking Darkness” opens with an unexpected elephant sample that adds an intriguing layer to the album. As the track progresses, this sample is manipulated to resemble free-jazz saxophone or distorted guitar feedback, showcasing Huremic’s innovative sound design.

Structure and Length

Unlike Parannoul’s sprawling compositions that often lead to climactic moments, Huremic’s work takes a different route. “Seeking Darkness” consists of five tracks, each titled “Seeking Darkness Pt. 1” through “Pt. 5,” with each piece extending well beyond the typical five-minute mark, reaching an hour-long runtime. The tracks meander through various textures and rhythms, sometimes shifting abruptly, which creates a captivating listening experience.

Track Analysis

Wild Exploration

The first, second, and fourth tracks are the most adventurous, showcasing a blend of melodic instruments and chaotic percussion. The use of expansive, multi-layered drumming patterns evokes comparisons to the Boredoms during their krautrock phase. Noise elements, including unidentifiable shrieks, enhance the album’s experimental ethos.

Highlights of Each Track

• Seeking Darkness Pt. 1: This track features a linear progression, with the elephant sample becoming increasingly distorted as it intertwines with heavier instrumentation.
• Seeking Darkness Pt. 2: The track transitions from repetitive beats to a glitchy explosion reminiscent of modern dubstep, showcasing Huremic’s ability to surprise the listener.
• Seeking Darkness Pt. 4: With harsh, guitar-like tones and a less structured approach, this piece invites comparisons to the experimental string work of Thurston Moore and Lee Ranaldo.

Conclusion

Huremic’s “Seeking Darkness” is a bold exploration of sound that defies conventional structure and embraces chaos. The album stands apart from Parannoul’s other works, focusing more on rhythm and noise than on melodic buildup. With its innovative use of samples and dynamic percussion, Huremic has cemented its place in the experimental music landscape, inviting listeners into a world where unpredictability reigns supreme.

FAQs

What genre does Huremic’s “Seeking Darkness” belong to?

The album falls within the experimental genre, blending elements of noise, free jazz, and electronic music.

How does “Seeking Darkness” compare to Parannoul’s previous works?

While Parannoul’s albums often build towards climactic moments, Huremic’s “Seeking Darkness” embraces a more chaotic and freeform structure.

What is the significance of the elephant sample in the album?

The elephant sample serves as a unique sonic element, symbolizing Huremic’s experimental approach and ability to manipulate sounds in unexpected ways.

How long is the album “Seeking Darkness”?

The album has a total runtime of one hour, consisting of five extended tracks.