Electronic musician and sound artist Simon Grab collaborates with in demand drummer and composer David Meier for the first time on »Porœs«. The album consists of seven deeply experimental cuts that pit the synthetic squelches, gurgles, scapes and noises of Grab against the ever-evolving percussion of Meier. The chemistry between them is evident from the start of opener »Basalt« with its simple but effective drumming cutting through a wall of synthetic noise. It’s a joyous assault on the senses that sees the two musicians teetering on the edge of chaos, deliberately existing in a space where the wheels could come off but holding it together in the most brilliant way.
»Porœs« was recorded across three sessions but has the feel of two people bouncing off each other in a room. The sense of spontaneity coupled with Meier’s expressive and detailed drumming contrast with the more synthetic, alien and abrasive elements of Grab’s synth work to great effect. ›Felsic‹ is a case in point with its deep squelchy bass tones and clattering metallic percussion creating a sonic environment that is dark and challenging, while at the same time being deeply engaging. The album closes with two lengthier cuts – the nine and a half minute »Pillow« and twelve minute monster ›Glow‹. The longer tracks give the pair more space to drive their noisy and expressive sonic interplay to its natural conclusion. The latter piece features some of the most jarring and harsh tones on the record, bringing the whole thing to a thrilling climax.
