Gjöll – On The Forgetting Of Language (Digital/CD Album – Ant-Zen)
The first album by the Icelandic duo Gjöll was released in 2006. Several other albums followed, but with “On The Forgetting Of Language”, Jóhann Eiríksson and Sigurður Harðarson present their first new opus in eleven years. The album is deeply introspective, serving as a kind of meditative reflection on the human spirit in a world that relentlessly continues to move forward.
Musically, Gjöll combines a variety of dark elements. Industrial percussion underpins waves of ominous soundscapes, repetitive electronic sequences, overwhelming effects, and an array of chaotic noises, buzzing textures, and even a muffled growl that functions as a vocal presence. All of these components are expertly fused into a cohesive whole that feels particularly tormented during certain passages.
What appeals to me most about this release is its dark atmosphere, which seems to awaken the hidden corners of the psyche. It is a true sonic maelstrom that captures the imagination and leaves a lasting impression. (Rating:7½).
Listen to “The Tongues Of Smoke And Ashes”:
About Gjöll
Gjöll is an industrial duo from Iceland formed by Jóhann Eiríksson and Sigurður Harðarson. The project released its first album, “Way Through Zero”, in 2006 on Ant-Zen, followed by “Not To Lead Nor To Follow” in 2007. In 2009 the duo issued the “Animal” EP on 77industry and the album “Sum Of Transformations” on Ant-Zen. “The Background Static Of Perpetual Discontent” followed on Ant-Zen in 2015. Gjöll now returns with “On The Forgetting Of Language”, its first new album in eleven years.
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I have been working for over 30 years with Side-line as the main reviewer. My taste is eclectic, uncoventional and I prefer to look for the pearls, even if the bands are completely unknown, thus staying loyal to the Side-Line philosophy of nurturing new talents.
