Rendering straight lines
Impossible, given all our false shrines
Under the creative helm of Cam Cunningham, the visionary force that is Jeezel Petes emerges from the bustling metropolis of Chicago. Bridging the gap between divergent landscapes – shoegaze, post-punk, acid jazz, math rock, and art rock, the project offers a unique fusion of styles, a symphony of noise designed to intrigue and inspire.
Absent Points of View, the second chapter in a series of intriguing quintet of EPs from the auditory alchemist, is not for the faint of heart. Cunningham boldly explores new territories, partnering with a different vocalist to add fresh layers to his guitar-driven compositions. Part Pere Ubu, part Captain Beefheart, part LITE, and part No Wave, the trilogy of numbers on this fascinating EP meanders through various time signatures, keys, and lyrical wordplay.
Daringly venturing into the untamed, ‘Absent Points of View‘ seizes the reins, establishing itself as the most ferocious and audacious ensemble of the series. The record, throbbing with adrenaline, manifests as a tapestry of avant-garde experimentation, echoing the relentless pulse of an unsettled dream. Going by his nom de plume ‘Dissonant Dessert,’ Eric Novak spins an alluring web of vocals that pirouettes on the fine line between the wildly idiosyncratic and the mesmeric.
This complex ballet is further amplified by Cunningham’s incisive guitar narratives and the band’s intricately calculated, momentum-charged rhythms.
“Nowhere To Hide” seems to capture the sentiments of a protagonist grappling with an internal conflict, perhaps an emotional turmoil or a harsh truth, as suggested by the repeated questioning and the struggle to reconcile oneself to a harsh reality.
The lyrical artistry of “Voithíse Me” explores themes of alienation, confusion, and the complexity of human perception. The repeated Greek phrase “Voithíse me” translates to “Help me,” indicating a plea for understanding or assistance in navigating through the opaque realities and puzzling situations they face.
“Absent Points Of View” offers a contemplative and nuanced exploration of personal battles, societal expectations, and the complexity of perception. The song’s title is echoed in the refrain, hinting at a lack of diverse perspectives in societal discourses, perhaps even a call for more inclusive and varied voices to be heard and understood.
Listen to Absent Points of View, below:
The EP, sculpted to glossy perfection by the deft mastering hand of Steve Marek (celebrated for his contributions to Monobody and NNAMDÏ), pledges an aural exploration as enthralling as its antecedent.
This year, Jeezel Petes debuted with ‘Missed It,’ the initial offering of a five-part EP journey, funded through the gracious aid of the city of Chicago’s DCASE.
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