CHICAGO—The experimental music collective Black Duck, in collaboration with Basque vocalist Elena Setién, announced Tuesday the release of a new album titled Black Duck With Elena Setién. The record, featuring the single “Land Of The Many Eyes,” was meticulously crafted to explore the sonic possibilities inherent in acoustic instruments and the human voice, sources confirmed. Black Duck, comprising members known for their work with Tortoise and Eleventh Dream Day, has previously released music that has been described as ‘challenging’ and ‘abstract.’ This new Black Duck project continues that tradition.
A Symphony of Unsettling Groans
Setién, whose previous work involved vocalizations described as ‘pre-linguistic utterances,’ expressed enthusiasm for the project. “We aimed to capture the sound of a damp sponge being wrung out in a forgotten attic,” Setién stated. “It’s an honest representation of the sounds that keep me awake at night.” The album promises a series of sonic experiments. “Land Of The Many Eyes” reportedly features the sounds of a metronome struggling against a strong wind. Listeners are advised to approach the music with an open mind and possibly earplugs. This Black Duck release is expected to be a milestone.
For the Discerning Auditory Palate
Douglas McCombs, a founding member of Black Duck, elaborated on the creative process. “Our goal was to create music that truly tests the boundaries of what constitutes ‘listening,'” McCombs explained. “We wanted to make something that felt like the inside of a poorly maintained refrigerator set to a slow tempo.” He added that the collaboration with Setién was a natural fit. “Elena understands the inherent tension in silence and the profound emotional impact of a single, prolonged sigh.” The Black Duck collective hopes the album will resonate with those seeking new auditory frontiers. Learn more about the band’s previous work on Stereogum.
The new LP is scheduled for release this summer. Early listeners have described the single as “a journey into the auditory unknown.” Some have also reported feeling an inexplicable urge to alphabetize their spice rack after hearing it.
At press time, reviewers were struggling to classify the album’s genre, debating between ‘existential dread-wave’ and ‘abstract acoustic groaning.’
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