anthrôpos

Opening with an insistent string motif, the "Ouverture" to Anthropos builds layer upon swirling layer of strings. Expect no release, because this brainchild of Florian Antoine builds Branca-esque moments of sound, so tightly wrapped that it becomes terrifying.

"Be a Vegetable" is less claustrophobic, but the ringing bass note and plodding timpani buried beneath the biting guitar notes are no less menacing. Similar ominous tones continue through much -- but not all -- of the album.

"Art is a Dirty Job" combines a drum loop with processed guitar for a sound that is perhaps best described as a drinking song for vacuum cleaners, whereas the minute-long minuet of "Foetus" creates a bewitching little melody on vibes. Make no mistake, however, because the threat quickly returns. The difficult nature of the music presented here may be a bit much for some listeners. The clicking loops of

"Vladimir" progress as the guitar builds into a feedback whine which fades in and out of phase.

"Afgghmtb" blends a distorted voice chanting the title (or something a hell of a lot like it) with a hip-hop rhythm.