Hidden Hand/Wooly Mammoth--Night Letters (split 12")
McCarthyism 2004
When you're talking about Wino, you're speaking on a master of doom-laden rock and metal. This man has been doing it longer and better than anyone else, never letting listeners down. As such, this split between his current band the Hidden Hand and Wooly Mammoth, titled Night Letters, is a no-brainer must-have release for anyone in the know. That said, while his prowess steals center stage here as always, it's not the only source of worth on this superb platter.
Reigning kings of doom rock the Hidden Hand open Night Letters with two new original cuts, "Five Points" and "Welcome To Sunshine." "Five Points" is the kind of riffed out spiritually driven killer stuff you've come to expect from anything involving Wino. At the same time, this track distinguishes itself from all other similar past efforts, thanks to its wonderfully understated ebow lead work. The effect produced is very ethereal and serves as a perfect compliment to the song's lyrical content. On the other hand, "Welcome To Sunshine" turns in a worthy instro workout. Just when you think you're going to be disappointed that the inherent melodicism of the riff has been denied lyrical treatment, Wino unleashes his inimitable shred and suddenly the extra space you have to focus in on it seems a blessing. In all, a tasty snack to prep you for the next Hidden Hand full-length.
Backing the masters are Wooly Mammoth with their pair of offerings "The Prophet" and "Mastercut And Charisma." A lot of folks have characterized these guys as "stoner rock" but that's somewhat inaccurate--this stuff leans more towards the grooved doom of Supernatural Birth Machine-era Cathedral. "The Prophet" starts heavily delayed and awash in dense reverb. This psych feeling intro makes for a perfect bridge, coming off the Hidden Hand side. This is the most powerful of Wooly Mammoth's tracks, though the weakness of vocal delivery at the end of each phrase creates just enough slacker lag to probably pull in the "stoner rockers." The organ accentuated "Mastercut And Charisma" closes things on a good note, managing to cultivate a vibe not unlike Astroqueen. A fitting introduction to a promising band.
For song quality, execution, and the ability of the bands to compliment eachother so well, Night Letters is a winner. You knew the Hidden Hand stuff was going to be essential but Wooly Mammoth do indeed hold their own. This might be a nice neutral ground for both "stoner rockers" and doomers to co-exist upon.
Score this 12" directly from MCCARTHYISM |
