Phil Elverum and Arrington de Dionyso Announce New Album Release
Album Details
Phil Elverum and his longtime friend and collaborator Arrington de Dionyso are set to release a new album titled Giant Opening Mouth on the Ground. The album will be available on August 8 through P.W. Elverum & Sun. Fans can look forward to a new music video for the lead track, “Sand Made From the Old Bank,” which encourages viewers to “WATCH IN ULTRA HD IF YOU CAN” and to crank the “VOLUME ON MAXIMUM.”
Vinyl and Artwork
In addition to its digital release, Giant Opening Mouth on the Ground will be pressed onto 1,000 vinyl LPs, featuring artwork by J. Pogue. This limited edition will offer fans a tangible experience of the album’s unique sound and artistic vision.
The Story Behind the Album
Despite being a new release, the album has roots stretching back over a decade. Recorded in 2014, its origins trace back even further. Elverum explains that around 2010, he created a self-playing loud sculpture that combined a 48-inch gong with a subwoofer. This innovative piece allowed him to explore sound in a unique way.
Collaboration in Anacortes
Elverum had his gong sculpture set up while working on his album Sauna. On May 13, 2014, he connected with Arrington de Dionyso in Anacortes, Washington. Together, they spent an afternoon improvising at a venue called the Unknown, where Elverum manipulated his sculpture while de Dionyso played contrabass clarinet, lalove, and used his voice.
Rediscovery and Production
After remaining untouched for nearly a decade, the recordings were rediscovered by Elverum in December 2024. He then divided the material into six tracks, which underwent mixing and editing before being mastered by JJ Golden in Ventura, California.
Longstanding Friendship and Collaborations
The relationship between Elverum and de Dionyso spans decades. De Dionyso featured on the 1998 Microphones compilation Tests, and Elverum later included a cover of de Dionyso’s song “Mystery Language” on his 2010 compilation Song Islands, Vol. 2. Additionally, de Dionyso played a crucial role in sharing a memorable karaoke performance by Elverum of Lil Wayne and T-Pain’s “Got Money” on YouTube.
Conclusion
The upcoming release of Giant Opening Mouth on the Ground marks an exciting moment for both Phil Elverum and Arrington de Dionyso, showcasing their unique collaboration and years of friendship. With its rich history and innovative sound, this album is sure to resonate with fans old and new.
FAQs
When will the album Giant Opening Mouth on the Ground be released?
The album is set to be released on August 8.
How can I listen to the new album?
The album will be available digitally and on vinyl, with 1,000 copies being pressed.
What is the significance of the gong sculpture?
The gong sculpture is a self-playing instrument created by Phil Elverum that serves as a unique sound source and artistic expression in the album.
Who created the artwork for the album?
The album artwork was designed by J. Pogue.
