Customer Reviews

Witchcraft Rebellion

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Front-man Arrington De Dionyso flaunts major rock 'n' roll chops on this, his finest release. The man is driven by primal motives that most of us have forgotten through the passing of time. He looks at the world of good and of evil, light and dark, Fire and water and screams, wails & rocks it out in an impressive display of vocalism. You really have to hear it to fully appreciate it. The cymbols/drums have a lo-fi tin can-like sound, with the exception of the bass drum, which is huge. The stand up bass is an excellent accompaniment and the manic Bass Clarinet almost mimics Arrington's manic vocals. I highly recommend this Old Time Relijun release in particular.

Check out "King of Nothing". That's my pick.

These are not traditional pop tunes, even by indie standards. The vocals are crazy-excellent (and occasionally Yoko Ono-esque (but don't let that scare you)), the music uses unconventional scales, the drums are killer primitive. The album has a raw, lo-fi sound; it reminds me of old-school Beck in that respect but with tons more energy. Musically, Old Time Relijun somewhat reminds me of The Residents, so if you're into that and don't mind a rougher sound, Witchcraft Rebellion is probably worth your cash.

I have always liked alternative music, but this isnt even alternative. It is a trio of musicians who make beautiful/terrible/horrifying noises at the same time. It is outrageous how 3 musicians can make something so terrifying yet beautiful. If you aren't fond of pointless music I dont suggest this for you, but if you want something truly different this is the album. Between his Yoko Ono impressions and his blaring bass clarinet solos Arrington De Dionyso is no ordinary musician. Also I enjoy how Aaron Hartman plays a stand up bass instead of a regular bass which i think sounds much better for their type of music, and Phil Elvrum's almost primitive sounding drums sound great with the music. Like I said if you want something different get this.

First of all it might be wise to point out that most people are going to find this stuff simply unlistenable, so it's advisable to download a couple of samples before buying the record...

Now back to the review: OLD relijun sound a bit like Birthday Party, only that they can't play their instruments, they merely strum them, producing out-of-tune, deranged loops of sounds. Arrington Dedionyso, OTR's mastermind, sings a bit like Black Francis which means that he babbles odd ravings all the time. Still, this sounds to me a bit like comedy-rock, with a lo-fi cabaret athmosphere. It surely isn't a great record but you may find it funny and enjoyable after awhile. I do!