Descartes A Kant - After Destruction
Published:
The Youtube algorithm pointed me to a KEXP live show by Descartes A Kant. So I bought their album "After Destruction". Here are some thoughts...
Descartes A Kant come from Guadalajara, Mexico. They've been around for around 20 years and are known for their unique sound that blends various genres, including punk, psycheldelia, ambient, math rock and experimental music. THey've worked with the likes of the legendary producer Steve Albini, who has worked with bands like Nirvana and Shellac. Their music is characterised by twin guitar work, complex rhythms, and a willingness to push the boundaries of traditional song structures.
I was drawn to their music by the KEXP performance. They had a strong retro sci-fi vibe, with a sound that felt both nostalgic and fresh. The performance featured some very cool dance moves. That along with the twin St Vincent guitars made for a very cool performance.
Their latest album, "After Destruction" came out in 2023 showcases their ability to create immersive soundscapes that evoke deep emotions and transport listeners to otherworldly realms. It is a concept album that takes the listener on a journey through a post-apocalyptic world. Concept albums are a rarity these days.
Concept albums were overdone in the 70's and were largely musical onanism designed to show off the virtuoisity of the band members. Mostly self indugent twaddle and yawningly boooooring. "After Destruction" is a refreshing take on the format. They grab those St Vincent guitars and smack you in the face with them.
The album's title suggests a reflection on the aftermath of destruction, both physical and emotional. Each track tells a story, weaving together themes of loss, hope, and the resilience of the human spirit. It is done with a mixture of irony and dark humour.
This album is very disciplined, with a clear vision and a cohesive sound that ties the tracks together. The band has a knack for creating atmospheric music that is both introspective and expansive, allowing listeners to get lost in the layers of sound.
"After Destruction" opens with the track "Hello User" which introduce the user to the fifth member of the band, DAK the computer. The track sets the tone for the rest of the album, with its haunting melodies and intricate arrangements. The use of electronic elements adds a modern touch, while the organic instrumentation grounds the music in a sense of reality.
It moves into "Graceless". Starting with a retro electro choir then goes in to a heavy guitar riff. The bass and drums are tight. The syncopation creates rhythm that drives the song forward. The guitars are layered, creating a rich sound that is both melodic and dissonant. The lyrics explore themes of loss and longing, with a sense of melancholy that lingers throughout the track.
Then comes along a the computer voice of DAK. This eventually leads into some thumping drums and a heavy guitar line of "The Mess We Made". After that, the computer voice admonishes us. "You knew this was going to happen..."
"Raindrops Of Poison" starts with a driving beat and a catchy guitar riff. The song builds in intensity, with layers of sound that create a sense of urgency. It moves into sonic territory that is reminiscent of the Sonic Youth.
The album moves into a more introspective mode with "Catastrophe". The track features a haunting melody and sparse instrumentation, allowing the listener to focus on the emotional weight of the lyrics. The use of silence and space in the arrangement creates a sense of tension, drawing the listener in and holding their attention.
"Woman Sobbing" gives the impression of an overwound clock. The song is a sonic exploration of the human experience, with its ups and downs, joys and sorrows.
Once you've through the catharsis of, you are ready to take the responsibility of being a human. The title track "After Destruction" is a powerful anthem that encapsulates the themes of the album. Congratulations, you've won life. However, all is not well. DAK detects a problem and invites you to run the programme all over again.
I don't mind if I do.
