Music Review: genCAB - II transMuter

II transMuter is the debut album from New Jersey based artist, genCAB. But if that name already sounds familiar, it’s because you can find a gC remix on Abuse By Proxy from Stray (Erica Dunham’s Unter Null side project), as well as contributions on Dark Sonus Vol. 1 and Modern Destruction, among others.

The title II transMuter nods to the dualistic nature of the album. Built on a framework of static machinery and abrasive percussions, II transMuter is laced with an anxiety that stems from a struggle with isolation, and at times is reminiscent of VIVIsect VI-era Skinny Puppy. The album owes much of its charisma to unique arrangements that are some of the best I’ve heard in a while. But what really draws genCAB out of the crowd is the startling and evocative lyrics. Subsequent listens revealed more textured patterns and details that were buried in the bigger picture on first listen.

Beginning with the short instrumental, "Left Eye Gemini," which sets the stage for what’s to come, II transMuter leads the listener through long, deserted passages that are lit up with glitchy flourishes. There are no superfluous tracks here. Each song takes you through a different frame in the storyboard until you’ve reached the haunting closer, "Right Eye Gemini." Both "Perish The Thought" and "Let it Be" are the obvious contenders to be favorites. However, the standout track for me is "Self Images", which hits the brakes and makes a surprising u-turn not too far in. There’s a sizable handful of songs that could easily take their place as singles.

This debut should leave you with no doubts that, with a little perseverance, genCAB can become a dominant force in industrial music. II transMuter is not out yet, but will be released via Hive records this summer.

Article Author: Angie Pardue

Angie Pardue is a music journalist covering all varieties of rock and electronic music, but is especially fond of industrial, avant-garde, and horror punk. In addition to running her own music blog, she's part of the team over at experimusic.com.

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