Untitled Document

Creating one of the blackest noises in Scotland currently isn't actually the easiest thing to achieve. You certainly wouldn't expect to find a former member of Scottish guitar jangle kings, Teenage Fanclub to be responsible either. Well Brendan O'Hare has gotten around the scene over the years, appearing briefly in Mogwai and then for a more prolonged period in the Telstar Ponies. Macrocosmica are from another planet altogether though. Possibly another reality.
Their last attempt at a proper album, 'Ad Astra' in 1998 fitted nicely into the space rock theme their titles often suggest. However, the songs were drawn out and lacked focus. Now, five years down the line, Macrocosmica have found the secret ingredient that was hiding down the back of their 2nd hand, stained couch.
The album is a gory piece of Black Sabbath influenced alternative rock. The lyrics are brutally honest and unpleasant but immensely fun to scream along with. No cheesy metal here either. The guitars are purposefully heavy and dirty, but not to be laughed at. Occasionally the pace slows to an acoustic guitar with female member, Cerwyss O'Hare taking over vocal duties to perform bleak Scottish diatribes. Best not to relax though or there may be an accidental decapitation from the sudden loud burst hidden around the corner.
"V For Vendetta" is the perfect opener on this album as it warns you about what is to come before punching you in the ribs for not believing in it. "Totem D" is the hit single of the album though. A short burst of anger that would fit perfectly on "In Utero" but don't dare hint that it's only good via imitation. These songs may not wait till your back is turned to get their revenge.
Finally, it would be wrong to do a review of this album and not mention the closing track, "Michael Jackson, Child Toucher". It may seem childish to promote it based on a humorous track title, but the music speaks for itself anyway. The album is hard hitting and angry yet also without guilt or remorse. Everyone needs a copy to rock out with and scream along to. Maybe best to only do so in private though.
stevenmc