Since the Accident

Since the Accident- Album Overview

"Since the Accident," released in 1983, marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of Australian electronic band Severed Heads. The album, released under the label Volition Records, showcases the band's innovative approach to the burgeoning genre of industrial and electronic music. Recorded during a period of creative exploration, the album reflects the band's embrace of a diverse range of sounds, incorporating elements of tape manipulation, sampling, and synthesized textures. The album's production is notable for its DIY aesthetic, which was characteristic of the underground music scene in Australia at the time.

Severed Heads, formed in the late 1970s, comprised core members Tom Ellard and Garry Bradbury, with contributions from various collaborators throughout their career. "Since the Accident" features tracks like "Dead Eyes Opened," which would gain notoriety for its haunting melodies and compelling soundscapes. The album's singles, particularly "Hot with a Cold" and "We Have Come to Bless the House," played a significant role in establishing the band's presence on the international stage, helping to bridge the gap between the post-punk and electronic genres.

Musically, the album is significant for its experimental nature, pushing boundaries that would influence countless artists in the years to come. The thematic content often centers around disconnection and technology, reflecting the anxieties of the modern age. The album's release was a key moment in the Australian music scene, contributing to the global rise of alternative and experimental music during the 1980s. Its impact can be felt in various genres, from industrial to ambient, making "Since the Accident" a cornerstone of Severed Heads' discography and a notable entry in the history of electronic music.

Review

In "Since the Accident," Severed Heads masterfully blend a variety of electronic elements that define their unique sound. The album is rich with atmospheric synths, intricate rhythmic patterns, and a collage of samples that create an immersive listening experience. The lyrics often evoke a sense of surrealism and disquiet, aligning perfectly with the experimental soundscapes. Tracks like "Dead Eyes Opened" exemplify the band's ability to fuse haunting melodies with a clinical production style, resulting in an unsettling yet captivating effect.

The album's artistic vision is ambitious, as it challenges listeners to engage with the complexities of modern life amidst a backdrop of synthetic sounds. The incorporation of spoken word samples and abstract lyrics adds a layer of depth to the work, inviting interpretation and reflection. While some tracks may come off as challenging or esoteric, they ultimately contribute to the album's overall narrative of technological alienation and emotional disconnection. Severed Heads successfully crafts an atmosphere that is both eerie and compelling, solidifying their place in the pantheon of electronic music innovators.

Highlights

• Innovative use of sampling and tape manipulation.
• Memorable and haunting melodies, particularly in "Dead Eyes Opened."
• A significant contribution to the evolution of electronic and industrial music.

Weak points

• Some tracks may feel inaccessible to mainstream audiences.
• The experimental nature can lead to moments of disconnection in flow.
• Lack of cohesive lyrical narrative throughout the album.

Overall evaluation

"Since the Accident" stands as a landmark album in Severed Heads' discography, showcasing their pioneering spirit and willingness to experiment with sound. While it may not cater to all listeners, its artistic significance and innovative approach to electronic music are undeniable. The album remains a vital piece of the puzzle in understanding the evolution of the genre.