L.A.’s Bondo have crafted a soporific, fug-filled floatation tank of sound with the curiously titled Joint with Ego. The slowcore-inspired pace is steadfast and languorous, and nothing unduly extrovert rears its head above the sonic parapet. It all stays in its focused, insular lane – but to tremendous effect.
There is no need for instrumental histrionics in this subdued post-rock landscape – here the fields roll by in endlessly hypnotic repetitions. The vocals are equally unencumbered by overt emotive displays, bleeding like powder paint into their soft-focussed surroundings, but they still pack an emotive punch – the whole sound world is foggy and deliberately obfuscatory.
Music like this could easily disappear into the background – it’s not clamouring for attention. But put the headphones in, close the door, close your eyes, and listen. It’s worth taking a little time to let it all sink in.
Written by M.A Welsh (Misophone)
