“Das Nichts” is the latest release from Derry-based outfit, Autumns. Having previously released on Downwards and CF Records, Christian Donaghy's project's new material has found a home at Clan Destine Records (who have previously released material by The KVB and Ela Orleans, among many others).
Released, appropriately, on download formats and a limited cassette run, the release mixes past and contemporary influences and sees Autumns travel deeper into electronic sounds than ever before, taking inspiration from past Industrial pioneers, through to more modern electronic sounds.
The release’s 19 minute centrepiece, “Motel Lover” kicks things off, starting out like the Cabs’ Nag Nag Nag with a squall of guitar feedback, then twists off into a dark journey through layers of noise, underpinned by a relentless kick drum.
“Cut Through” mixes analogue beats with layers of guitar noise and distorted vocals, also reminiscent of Cabaret Voltaire in their prime.
“Smother Me” travels deeper into electronics, with a repetitive 505 beat behind loops and a vocal recalling Throbbing Gristle.
“FedByDominance” introduces a-techno like 4x4 beat, layered over with the darker influences regularly called upon by Downwards label boss Regis, to set itself aside from standard dancefloor fodder.
“The Fall” takes the sound deeper, with heavy delayed beats echoing behind dark walls of noise to close out the EP.
“Das Nichts” sees the Autumns sound developing in darker, more complex directions to previous releases and acts as a taster for the forthcoming debut album.
Varg (yes that Varg) is simply one of the best electronic musicians on the planet. His music is always inventive and challenging. I recommend anything Jonas produces in all of his various personas. Burton Thomas