Exploring the Depths of “In the Earth Again”
A Slow Descent into Purgatory
“In the Earth Again” unfolds at a glacial pace, allowing each musical element to coalesce organically. The album opens with the instrumental track “Outside,” characterized by Pedigo’s plaintive guitar work, enhanced by the contributions of Chat Pile guitarist Luther Manhole, Busch, and Cap’n Ron, who typically handles percussion but showcases his skills on powerslide lap steel in several tracks. This opening piece flows seamlessly into “Demon Time,” a mesmerizing composition where Busch ominously prophesies the burning of all castles and the return of demons. With lyrics that declare, “And they will find you / And they will fuck you up,” his voice remains low and even throughout. Despite their tranquil soundscapes, both “Outside” and “Demon Time” are laden with tension, creating an atmosphere ripe for eventual release.
Catharsis Through Chaos
When “Never Say Die!” bursts forth with a bulldozing power chord and an explosive kick, it offers a sense of catharsis that contrasts sharply with the preceding tracks. This track epitomizes the quintessential Chat Pile sound—sludgy, detuned, and merciless, making it a standout on the album.
Vocal-Centric and Instrumental Interplay
The remainder of “In the Earth Again” oscillates between vocal-driven songs and instrumental interludes. “Behold a Pale Horse” showcases a beautiful duet between Pedigo and Manhole, rich in counterpoint yet infused with a haunting reverb. In “Fission/Fusion,” the song begins with jarring noise before evolving into a sound reminiscent of Metallica. Meanwhile, “I Got My Own Blunt to Smoke” features Busch alone with his guitar, cleverly interpolating a five-note descending scale that evokes a sense of melodrama, almost to a cartoonish extent. Given his history of playful cultural references throughout Chat Pile’s discography, it’s hard to believe Busch isn’t fully aware of the effect he’s creating.
The Matador: A Missed Opportunity
The album’s centerpiece, “The Matador,” spans eight minutes and features field recordings and tape loops that contribute significantly to the overall atmosphere. However, this track also highlights a disconnect between Chat Pile and Pedigo’s artistic sensibilities. Busch repeatedly shouts, “Things fall apart!” as the song opens with nearly two minutes of tape loops before gradually building into a heavy riff. While the music chugs along relentlessly, it ultimately loses its punch in the latter half. There’s potential for a compelling four-minute track here, but the extended guitar solo and sluggish introduction feel excessive and detract from the song’s impact.
Conclusion
“In the Earth Again” is a complex exploration of sound, tension, and release. The album’s ability to blend tranquil moments with explosive catharsis showcases the unique artistic vision of Chat Pile and Pedigo. While some tracks may falter in execution, the overall experience remains a compelling journey through various musical landscapes.
FAQs
What is the overall theme of “In the Earth Again”?
The album explores themes of tension, release, and spiritual turmoil, using haunting lyrics and atmospheric instrumentation to convey its message.
Who are the main contributors to the album?
The album features Pedigo, Busch, Cap’n Ron, and Chat Pile guitarist Luther Manhole, each contributing their unique musical talents.
What is the standout track on the album?
Many listeners consider “Never Say Die!” to be the standout track due to its explosive sound and quintessential Chat Pile characteristics.
Are there any tracks that don’t resonate well?
Some listeners may find “The Matador” less impactful due to its lengthy introduction and extended guitar solo that detract from the overall energy of the song.
