Samantha Glass

Nine Memories Between Impression and Imprint

BY Bryon HayesPublished Oct 17, 2018

7
Beau Deveraux's latest LP as Samantha Glass is a mesmerizing glimpse into an oeuvre that spans darkwave, industrial noise and bleak post-punk. This is the artist's sophomore release for the sonically aligned Holodeck imprint, building upon its predecessor's already doom-laden atmosphere with its dread-inducing field recordings and voice samples that evoke a fearful artificial intelligence developing consciousness.
 
Present, as always, is Glass's deep baritone croon, accompanied by drum machine rhythms and sinister synth pads seemingly torn right from the night air. Punishing salvos of noise ("Putting the Male to Rest, Parts 1 & 2," "Discreet & Perfect for Travel") and suspenseful, horror film-like sound design ("From Behind Our Wings") present themselves as abrupt interludes to Glass's attempted seduction. They keep the listener on edge, pleading for the return of the sultry rhythms of the more straightforward and beauty-filled pieces that the artist offers.
 
Conceptually, Nine Memories Between Impression and Imprint mirrors Glass's self-discovery, presents a perception that burrows deep below the surface and offers a reflection on identity and life's journey.  It is equally captivating and chilling; its enigmatic presence beckons with a malevolent glee.
(Holodeck)

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