Op

Op- Album Overview

Severed Heads's album "Op," released in 1983, represents a significant milestone in the evolution of industrial and electronic music. The album was released under the label Volition and is characterized by its innovative use of sampling, synthesizers, and unconventional song structures. Recorded primarily by the band's frontman, Tom Ellard, "Op" emerged from the Australian underground music scene, where Severed Heads was influential in shaping the sound of experimental electronic music. The album features a blend of dark, ambient textures and rhythmic experimentation, which were groundbreaking for its time. The use of found sounds and manipulated samples showcases Ellard's commitment to pushing the boundaries of music production. Collaborators on the album included musicians like Garry Bradbury, who contributed to the band's distinct sound with his expertise in electronic instrumentation. "Op" includes notable tracks such as "Dead Eyes Open," "Mambo Fists," and "We Have Come to Bless This House," each of which exemplifies the band's unique approach to composition and sound design. The album's singles, particularly "Dead Eyes Open," garnered attention in both the underground and mainstream scenes, helping to establish Severed Heads as a pioneering force in the genre. Culturally, "Op" reflects the early '80s zeitgeist—an era marked by a fascination with technology and a disillusionment with traditional forms of music. Its influence can be traced through subsequent electronic genres, including IDM and glitch, making it a crucial album for understanding the trajectory of modern music.

Review

"Op" is a compelling exploration of sound that marries the experimental with the accessible. The album's production is dense yet meticulously crafted, allowing listeners to perceive layers of sonic detail that may go unnoticed on initial listens. Tom Ellard's vocal delivery, often delivered in a detached manner, adds an eerie and haunting quality to the tracks, which is complemented by the instrumentation's often jarring yet hypnotic nature. Lyrically, "Op" delves into themes of disconnection and existential questioning, reflective of the post-punk ethos of the time. The blend of abstract lyrics with the album’s rich soundscapes creates a thought-provoking listening experience that resonates on multiple levels. The artistic vision of Severed Heads during this period was to break free from conventional music norms, and "Op" serves as a testament to that ambition. Overall, "Op" is not just an album; it's an experience that challenges listeners to engage with sound in a way that few albums do. Its impact on later music cannot be overstated, and it remains a touchstone for those exploring the intersections of sound, technology, and emotion in music.

Highlights

• Innovative use of sampling and sound design.
• Complex layers of sound that invite deep listening.
• Influential track "Dead Eyes Open" marked a significant moment in electronic music.

Weak points

• Some listeners may find the abstract nature of the lyrics challenging.
• The album's experimental style may not appeal to mainstream audiences.
• Production quality may feel dated compared to contemporary standards.

Overall evaluation

"Op" by Severed Heads is a landmark album that encapsulates the spirit of innovation in the early electronic music scene. Its experimental approach continues to inspire artists today, making it an essential listen for anyone interested in the evolution of sound. Personal rating: 8/10