Fucked Up Noise
Having got over my initial disappointment that this disc wasn't the recorded debut of a group of mutant felines armed with TNT I've come to enjoy the singular vision of Achenar and this record's jerky, pummelling rhythms, discordant electronics and disregard for conventions. Whilst not heavy or metallic in the usual sense the EP certainly appeals to ears attuned to such anti-social sounds. Taking cues from the likes of Nine Inch Nails and Throbbing Gristle amongst others "Super Death Explosion Kittens" is twenty minutes of singular noise.
The EP doesn't separate easily into individual songs and more easily understood as one interconnected melee of muddy distortion. "Super Death Explosion Kittens" initialises with the ambient drifting of 'Arise, Minions!' before unleashing its true character on 'Vocal Opposition'. Drums cross over each other as the industrial grade electronics snap and crackle wickedly. 'The Enthralled' features a deep drone over a frantic yet detailed backbeat and introduces some more recognisably metal themes including roared distorted vocals.
Remember that scene in Robocop where the prototype all machine law enforcer is introduced to corporate board and promptly slaughters the snivelling fat-cats? Well the interlude at track four is very similar. Huge hydraulic footsteps stomp towards our protagonist- Achenar - who seemingly brings death to the personified electronics while simultaneously indulging in wry persona self destruction. All without the usual rock norms of blatant selling out or drug meltdown – excellent.
'Neon Storm' sees the textures employed on the proceeding tracks coalescing into a more cohesive, though far from regular structure. It messes with time and expectations and is one of the standout moments. 'God Agog' and 'Born into Steam' build on the growing menace as the last third produces the record's most enthralling music. On these tracks we have Teutonic sounding vocals, calmer percussive dynamics (relatively speaking of course) and a heavy dose of doom demonstrating the best of Achenar's songwriting.
"Super Death Explosion Kittens" is skittish aural violence delivered with teenage abandon and it's a compelling listen. Uneasy listening made with a shit eating grin and a mischievous mind - surely a combination not to be ignored.