Well, here's my contribution to my uncertain and opaque effort to say something interesting about Hologram of Baal.In my opinion, Mats was far better, better produced and wiser than this smoky album.I know it's completely different. But the sound on Mats seems to be more achieved, more precise and the bass guitar is a predominant element.I would'nt say that HOB is patchy, that's the contrary , it is totally homogenic.For me , it is an outlining album.It's like the chemistry was strong when they recorded the album.There's some loose feeling too. It's drowned in a fog.
After all" Anaesthesia" has this kind of spanish-gothic sound but it seems the band is tired.
Then comes "Ricochet" with a good drum and a big bass line.
"Louisiana" brings some light.
"The Great Machine" is mysterious.
"No Certainty Attached" is a b- side for me.
"Tranquility" comes at least.I agree with everyone :it's a great song.
Then "Buffalo":the most dynamic and inspired song of HOB.
This is it is a little morbid for my tastes but there's always been a struggle in The Church between shadows and light.
Another Earth could have been a PK song.
Glow Worm is a bit romantic.
I don't know if it is a rebirth for The Church, certainly one step into a different state of mind.
I like this album but it's not so crucial.I mean the electricity is static!
They sould have been produced by anyone else rather than Tim Powles!I liked his drumming on SA but not here!
Now they are humble!