Astral Noize

With music self-described as an “audiovisual suicide note”, this premiere of an album from enigmatic one-man black metal project Caïna is not really a premiere at all. In fact, the release was originally unveiled online back in 2013, but since then all traces of it have vanished into the digital void, with its creator Andrew Curtis-Brignell at one point deciding that it was simply too painful and personal a piece to share with the world.

Now, however, Litanies Of Abjection is resurfacing via a re-release from The Dropa Collective, who have previously released works from communist black metaller Kastchei and blackened noise-monger Grimmness. As emotions became less raw, ACB and The Dropa Collective decided that Litanies Of Abjection deserved a reissue. Those who heard it in its initial release will no-doubt rejoice at this news, whilst the uninitiated should surely start paying attention. As with all Caïna releases, the record has its own distinct sound born of a forward-thinking outlook and a desire to experiment.

Indeed, it is perhaps one of the musician’s most eclectic offerings, boasting a heavily industrial Side A before Side B delves into more ambient textures reminiscent of post-rock at its most exploratory. The vocals seem inspired by Scott Walker, whilst the intensely personal and largely improvised lyrics recount the fractured state of ACB’s psyche. Scroll on to hear it in its entirety a full week before release.

The Dropa Collective say of the release: “For me, this is the most interesting and enticing release ACB has ever made. It’s a vitally important piece of his discography and I’m excited to have a part in making this album available again in 2019.”

Litanies Of Abjection is out 5th July on The Dropa Collective. Purchase here.

Words: George Parr