INVUNCHE – ATAVISMO LP (Nuclear War Now! Productions)
Pollinating an eclectic blend of styles and genres – predominantly (but not limited to) raw Black Metal, primitive punk and psychedelic rock – ‘Atavismo’ traverses time and space as well as musical boundaries to remarkably accomplished effect, culminating in the kind of truly captivating and unique listening experience that is all too rare. While much is made of the limitations and rumoured death of Black Metal, here is proof that in the right hands all kinds of magic are possible.
From his exile in the Netherlands, El Invunche further explores his Mapuche heritage, stepping outside the horrors of the modern world and visiting a distant place of sun and moon worship, shamanism, mysticism and sacrificial offerings. It’s not all for the faint of heart but the primal, natural days of yore resonate and appeal through the stellar musical landscape conjured on the second Invunche full-length. A welcome escape, which is what art should be all about.
Celestial bodies, mystical figures and ritualistic resonances reach through the speakers as we are invited to commune with a cast of mystical characters: Antü, Elal, Pachamama, Küyen and El Huaso. ‘Atavismo’ is an urgent record, sombre at times, always engaging. The music aligns in spirit with the likes of Akitsa, Bone Awl, Volahn and Ildjarn, but Invunche is at the same time a law unto itself, following its own majestic yet forlorn path.
Retro and nostalgic yet fresh and immediate, in many respects this album is a fist in the face of the madness of the world that exists today. While ancient civilisations did not have access to the technology we have been granted and carried some far-fetched beliefs, they were more attuned to the world around them and certainly no more savage than modern humans. This is the sort of creation that makes one reflect and the fact that it is also such a great listen seals the deal. Cool artwork and presentation, too.
More to follow…
Evilometer: 666/666