How to perceive this latest effort All Will Change from Scotland's Achenar with its dichotomous blend of dissonant, electronic aggression and subtle at times beautiful melodies, is the real question here. After one listen to this disc the listener might be left scratching their head wondering if the mad architect behind this sonic canvas, Duncan Hemingway has either created a satisfying and varied listening experience or one which lacks a specific musical direction. In actuality it might be a bit of both.
It's pretty evident early on that Hemmingway isn't interested in conforming to one particular style of music as he pretty much leaves any musical borders in his rear view mirror. After the introductory industrial sounding landscape of "Origin" the next track "Survive Yourself" builds with a deliberate, ominous, gothic inspired tension before exploding in a swirl of abstract layers which segue directly into "The Suicide of Giants", a track which allows him to take his abstract concepts a step further. The harsh, bludgeoning electronic assault of this track could have Nine Inch Nails front man Trent Reznor dialing up Hemmingway's number on his speed dial after he hears this one. "Re-Enervate", "Let Us Help You" and "Avalanche of Fire" are equally as impressive in this regard as each provides an unrelentingly abrasive and fragmented assault on the senses. However All Will Change also demonstrates that Hemmingway is quite capable of shifting gears on the fly and by including three tracks ("Sojurn", "With Conviction" and "1+0=10") that concentrate more on the exploration of subtle, ambient textures than just electronic noise, he effectively alters the mood somewhat. "Sojurn" in particular is multi-faceted gem yet all three seem inexplicably linked through their impressive orchestral arrangements.
Taken as a whole All Will Change will present a challenging listening experience especially for people who prefer their music more on the…shall we say commercial side. However the patient listener will revel in uncovering Hemmingway's diverse musical influences hidden deep within the layers of these songs, if given the proper time and place to absorb it.
Track Listing
1) Origin
2) Survive Yourself
3) The Suicide of Giants
4) Pocket Quantum
5) Verify Me
6) Re-Enervate
7) Sojourn
8) Let Us Help You
9) Avalanche of Fire
10) Not To Speak
11) With Conviction
12) 1+0=10
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