ABOMINATION REVEALED AT LAST: A Raw Expression of Frustration
Mocking the Enemies
For your own sanity, there are times when you need to mock your adversaries—even those you’ll never encounter in real life. In the track “Fight Simulator,” John Dwyer of Osees delivers a whiny, aristocratic monologue: “I am insufferable, unbelievably satisfied / It’s my place to tell you what is wrong.” As his narrative unfolds, the protagonist reveals a sense of defectiveness, trapped and sadistic in nature, inflicting punishment. The tempo slows, and Dwyer’s voice melts into a half-asleep gargled whisper, repeating the question, “For how long?” The release of such self-deprecating mockery can indeed feel liberating.
A Channel for Frustration
This essence carries through the entirety of ABOMINATION REVEALED AT LAST. Osees unleash their pent-up energy, transforming loathing and disgust into a frenetic soundscape. During their recording sessions in Tornillo, Texas—next to a now-closed “tent city”—Dwyer and his bandmates—including drummers Dan Rincon and Paul Quattrone, guitarist and keyboardist Tom Dolas, and bassist Tim Hellman—transformed their frustrations into music that confronts the harsh realities of today: rampant genocides, abducted civilians, the rise of AI, and unchecked tech billionaires. Dwyer expressed his exhaustion with the world’s state upon announcing the album, yet the music feels more invigorated compared to their previous synth-centric release, Sorcs 80.
Clear Messages with Fury
There is little ambiguity in the messages of ABOMINATION REVEALED AT LAST. In the track “Protection,” Dwyer boldly declares, “Musk is done / Mark is done / We want / Shift that’s coming,” while his aggressive vocals are backed by proto-punk drumming. In “God’s Guts,” he pierces through the façade of politicians: “I know you’re a man of faith / Dipped in blood and ordained.” Osees manage to avoid sounding repetitive by infusing their songs with raw energy. Dwyer’s piercing screeches in “God’s Guts” resemble a fierce animalistic roar, complemented by a rapid disco-punk rhythm from his bandmates. They even delve into hardcore territory on “Ashes 1,” where the drummers introduce slight hiccups to their patterns, keeping the intensity in check.
Variety in Sound
Despite several rage-filled tracks, Osees’ latest album does not serve as a direct sequel to the punk intensity of 2022’s A Foul Form. The jittery energy often shifts into psych-rock explorations, highlighted by the danceable “Glass Window” and an extended guitar solo in “Glüe.” The closing track, “Glitter-Shot,” channels the disaffected post-punk vibes of Preoccupations, with deep, monotone vocals that mock a recognizable figure in power. However, the standout track is undoubtedly “Sneaker,” where the dual drummers lock into a krautrock groove while Hellman and Dolas create a compelling interplay. This track echoes the loose no-wave style of Chime Oblivion, Dwyer’s side project, but under the Osees banner, it transforms into a mesmerizing journey that gently nods to the band’s earlier works.
Rejuvenation and Commitment
As Osees embark on their 29th album, Dwyer remains fully engaged with his craft. Whether he’s chasing song ideas or performing on stage with fervor, he shows no signs of fatigue. A lengthy career often circles back on itself, and in ABOMINATION REVEALED AT LAST, Osees hint at a return to the garage-rock sound of their mid-2010s era. While the album incorporates too much synth and wooden drumming to be a complete throwback to their Thee Oh Sees days, the title and artwork evoke echoes of their 2014 release, Mutilator Defeated at Last. Dwyer himself acknowledges the parallels, stating, “We leave a lot to interpret on our fans.” For now, Osees channel their revitalized energy through a melange of genres while still releasing the pent-up punk spirit.
Conclusion
ABOMINATION REVEALED AT LAST is a testament to Osees’ ability to channel their frustrations and observations about the world into a dynamic and varied sound. With a blend of punk, psych-rock, and post-punk influences, the album stands as a cathartic release, confirming that Dwyer and his bandmates are far from finished. Their commitment to exploring new musical landscapes while maintaining their punk roots makes this album a noteworthy addition to their discography.
FAQs
What themes are explored in ABOMINATION REVEALED AT LAST?
The album addresses themes of societal discontent, political corruption, and the influence of technology, expressed through raw energy and incisive lyrics.
How does this album compare to previous works by Osees?
While it retains the band’s punk roots, ABOMINATION REVEALED AT LAST blends various genres such as psych-rock and post-punk, setting it apart from their earlier, more straightforward punk albums.
What is the significance of the album title?
The title ABOMINATION REVEALED AT LAST reflects the band’s frustration with current societal issues and their desire to confront these realities through their music.
Who are the members of Osees contributing to this album?
The album features John Dwyer on vocals and guitar, Dan Rincon and Paul Quattrone on drums, Tom Dolas on guitar and keyboards, and Tim Hellman on bass.
What can fans expect from Osees in the future?
Given the band’s history of evolving their sound, fans can anticipate further experimentation with different genres while remaining true to their punk roots in future projects.
