Portuguese Deathrock ensemble Louvado Abismo have emerged from the shadows and onto the international gothic rock stage with the announcement of their self-titled debut album, a compelling mixture of old-school post-punk and tenebrous darkwave elements. The album, scheduled for release on vinyl and digital formats on the 31st of May via Half Beast Records, with a CD release to follow, delves into the complex themes of schizophrenia and psychological disturbance.
The band is comprised of seasoned artists hailing from a spectrum of creative fields, infusing their collective with unparalleled depth and complexity. At the helm, Patrícia Andrade, a luminary in the theater world with her roots in Sinistro, captivates with her vocal prowess. Hugo Conim, with his intricate guitar stylings, Pedro Almeida, master of rhythmic beats on the drums, and Hélder Luís, who lays down the foundational bass lines, complete this quartet, each member contributing their distinct flair to the band’s unique sound.
Their debut album stands as a testament to Louvado Abismo’s ability to blend diverse dark music influences, drawing from Christian Death, Siouxsie, and the Banshees, and even elements from industrial pioneers like Godflesh, Swans, and Ministry. This eclectic works surprisingly well and reinvigorates the ’80s gothic aesthetic for contemporary audiences, creating a soundscape that is both nostalgic and innovative.
Their forthcoming album’s rhythmic foundation oscillates between precise drum arrangements and looser, danceable beats, complemented by the synthesized twang of guitars that capture the essence of ’80s glamour. The bass adds cinematic depth, weaving through the music to create a rich melange of sound that ranges from agonizing dissonance to ecstatic grooves.
Patrícia Andrade’s vocal performance, particularly in the lead single “Corrida Lenta,” is a standout feature, embodying the band’s exploration of complex themes through her theatrical intensity. Her voice, warm and ethereal, moves between powerful exclamations and tender whispers, guiding the listener through an immersive journey filled with surreal and formless thoughts.
“Corrida Lenta” itself is a dark and immersive track that epitomizes the band’s ominous take on gothic rock. The guitar work is sharp, cutting through the air with the precision of an ice storm, while Andrade’s vocals envelop the listener in a warm, gauzy resonance. This blend of elements recalls the haunting beauty of Deathrock classics by Mephisto Walz and Faith and the Muse, echoing the legacy of Christian Death.
The chorus of “Corrida Lenta” features an intricate overlay of tribal drums, evoking the heritage of traditional Portuguese culture, and progresses towards a Lynchian atmosphere. The track concludes with a poignant piano piece by guest musician Towkuhsh Razamod, reminiscent of Swans, encapsulating the song’s structural simplicity and emotional depth.
The music video for “Corrida Lenta” is a visual manifestation of the song’s thematic depth, presenting a warm, hallucinogenic reverie bathed in effervescent amber hues. It explores primal, primordial themes, akin to a cocoon within a dream, where shadow and light engage in a timeless dance. This shadowplay, set in a nebulous realm, enhances the song’s introspective and contemplative nature, inviting the viewer into a deep, introspective journey.
Watch the video for “Corrida Lenta” below:
Pre-orders for Louvado Abismo’s self-titled debut begin on April 3rd, 2024.
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