Embracing the In-Between: A Reflection on Seasons and Music

The In-Between Moments of Life

There are fleeting times throughout the year when we find ourselves in a liminal space, where one season drags on, teetering between the past and the future. It’s during these periods—like early March or late August—that we feel the weight of time, a reminder that not every day holds significance. Life doesn’t adhere to our expectations; instead, it unfolds at its own pace, often leaving us in a state of suspended anticipation.

New Sounds on the Horizon

In the midst of this seasonal limbo, I was thrilled to discover a new release from Calmed by Nature—an unexpected second installment before the arrival of Spring. This deviation from their usual schedule may be influenced by the current fervor in the AI arms race, but regardless, it’s a delightful surprise for those of us eagerly awaiting new sounds.

A Shift Away from Social Media

This year, I’ve embarked on a personal challenge: to spend significantly less time on social media and more time immersed in literature. My goal is to read outside my comfort zone and tackle more challenging material. So far, I’ve delved into an abstract French novel, explored modern Japanese plays, examined authenticity in economic culture, enjoyed a musician’s memoir, and am currently unpacking the left’s abandonment of the middle class.

This endeavor isn’t just a self-indulgent boast; it’s a sincere recommendation for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the toxic environment social media has become, especially in the wake of polarized political discourse. My newsfeed has morphed into a landscape dominated by right-leaning, evangelical sentiments and praise for tech moguls. In response, I’m working to break free from the addictive cycle of brain-numbing content.

Rediscovering Underground Music

One potential downside of this digital detox is the risk of missing out on new music and projects. However, by filtering out the noise on social media, I’ve been able to focus on more obscure releases that may have slipped under my radar. Recently, my musical tastes have gravitated towards the more avant-garde realms of underground metal, and as my literary pursuits expand, I find myself evolving into a self-proclaimed “man of culture.”

Recent Discoveries in Music

Here are some of the intriguing sounds I’ve been exploring lately:

Anonymous Skull – By My Hand, With Fervour Infinite

Anonymous Skull has captivated me since their debut demo. After a quiet 2023 following the release of Oh, To Be Forgotten, I was excited to learn about their new EP. By My Hand, With Fervour Infinite might just be their best work yet, blending outsider black metal with a post-punk aesthetic. The project exudes a haunting sophistication reminiscent of Revenant Marquis, creating truly spectral music that may well be my favorite EP of 2025, and the year has just begun.

Nervatuur / Alkoof Split

Venturing into electronic territory, I stumbled upon a split cassette featuring two Dutch ambient projects, Nervatuur and Alkoof. Nervatuur’s sound, described as “moss and leaves ambiance,” offers a pulsating, green noise that resonates with fans of early Runes Order or In Slaughter Natives. Alkoof, the project of BLTZR from Urfaust, delivers droning ambient that echoes the works of Neptune Towers and Laurie Spiegel, resulting in captivating soundscapes.

Somatic Anxiety – Glass Prison

I recently discovered Somatic Anxiety through their Glass Prison cassette, which fuses elements of black punk with anarcho-punk influences. This project defies genre conventions while delivering raw, powerful music that demands to be heard.

Fleckentarn – Feu du ciel, feu de l’esprit

Fleckentarn’s latest offering, Feu Du Ciel, Feu De L’esprit, showcases a masterful blend of black metal and punk. The record stands out with its homage to both Forest Poetry and the avant-garde sounds of The Velvet Underground, creating an experience that is both chaotic and coherent.

Vaurien – Merveilleux décombres

Finally, Vaurien’s Merveilleux Décombres takes the listener on a challenging journey through black metal, noise, and traditional French music. This release, while less accessible, demands full attention and offers a rewarding experience for those willing to explore its depths.

Conclusion

These recent musical discoveries serve as a reminder of the richness that lies beyond social media’s distractions. I encourage everyone to take a break from the digital noise, immerse themselves in deeper listening, or explore a different field of art. Whether it’s reading a book without the urge to scroll or simply letting yourself get lost in music, we all stand to gain from disconnecting and reassessing what truly matters in our lives.

FAQs

What is the significance of in-between moments in life?

In-between moments serve as reminders that not every day is extraordinary and that life unfolds at its own pace, often leading to feelings of anticipation for what comes next.

How can I reduce my time on social media?

Consider setting specific limits on your daily social media usage, unfollowing accounts that contribute to negativity, and replacing that time with activities that enrich your life, such as reading or exploring music.

What genres of music should I explore outside of my comfort zone?

Try exploring genres you might not typically listen to, such as underground metal, ambient, or experimental music. You may discover new sounds that resonate with you in unexpected ways.

How can I benefit from disconnecting from social media?

Disconnecting from social media can lead to a clearer mind, greater focus on personal interests, and an opportunity to engage more deeply with art, literature, and music.