In mercy, we’ve been given pain
Like bone dry land is given rain
And all the things we dared not say
Will hunt us every day
Berlin’s Day Clinic emerges as the defiant offspring of four ‘sonic wanderers’ hailing from Israel, Spain, Germany, and the UK. Drawn to the magnetic pull of Berlin, these nomads converged in 2018 to craft their unique fusion of chilly, ’80s-inspired post-punk, alternative rock, and heavy psych— mirroring the relentless and diverse spirit of the city that birthed it.
Day Clinic’s latest single, “As Above So Below,” emanates an intense, raw aura that occasionally veils itself in mystery, yet persistently thumps with an entrancing beat, setting the stage for frontman Boris Kaplunovich’s ominous vocals. Building upon their foundational alternative rock sound, Day Clinic expertly weaves psychedelic intricacies and reflects the nuanced tones and visuals found in contemporary post-punk. “As Above So Below” artfully navigates a chilling, gradual decline, provoking shivers with each note, oscillating between the profound depths of desolation and irresistibly catchy crescendos. A raw, sorrowful industrial guitar pierces the meditative essence of the lyrics, forging a path deep into self-reflective regret.
“As Above So Below” paints a vivid portrait of the torment stemming from ill-fated connections and the internal battle to acknowledge and express emotions, culminating in the sorrowful distancing from those who desire genuine intimacy. The track channels Tuxedomoon, later Depeche Mode, Nick Cave, and Radiohead, all enveloped in a shadowy, Lynchian atmosphere. The nighttime video for the song encapsulates that further in a noir-inspired, self-directed clip.
“The ride through the cold night city is an attempt to run away, to escape the emotions one is not ready to face and which only bring sorrow and dissatisfaction,” says the band.
Watch the video below:
Initially known as Janis, the band transitioned to the name Day Clinic to more aptly capture the essence of their music, which incorporates synthesized tones, authentic saxophone, flute, and sitar. Yet, amidst these varied instruments, Day Clinic’s hallmark remains: a fuzz-laden, stoner-esque bass, raucous guitar riffs, and a voice that skillfully navigates between melancholy and fervent anger.
The ensemble consists of Boris, formerly of Totenwald, Rafa from Barana and Ondo, and the talents of Can and Eugen. Not ones to shy away from the hard questions, Day Clinic delves right into into deep, pressing themes of social detachment birthed from the onslaught of advanced technology, the delicate nature of life in a world overshadowed by militant animosity, and the ongoing battle for mental equilibrium.
As Above So Below is off the album S/T, available via Bandcamp.
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