The Gluts have emerged from the depths of Milan to release their second LP Estasi on Fuzz Club Records. The album released on 5th May is the follow up to their debut album Warsaw which was released in 2014 and the quartet have already released a number of piercing teasers including first single ‘Squirrel’, a slab of screeching noise-rock as dark and bleak as current times.
Estasi is driven by a brooding rhythm section, probing gothic tinged guitars, swirling feedback and gravelly, menacing vocals. Raw and piercing in its delivery, this punk enthused psychedelic brings to mind the likes of Bauhaus and Sisters of Mercy whilst channelling shoegaze with its layers of hazy guitar.
‘Colline Blanche’ starts with a throbbing bass line, fuzz laced guitars and a pounding rhythm which continue throughout as harsh vocal melodies rise above to take prominence. Followed by ‘Controller’ which ramps the tempo up a notch with a racy pace and an intriguing guitar riff which springs in and out of awareness as the track progresses. The track is reminiscent of Joy Division is places and is a heady cocktail of sound.
Then comes ‘That’s’ Me’; a pulsing rhythm sets the senses alight through the bass and drums working in perfect unison creating a menacing start. The initially haunting vocals progress the track, becoming ever more gravelly as the fuzz laden guitar take hold. The vocals become shouted statements, the drumming more complex, the guitar intensifies and the final addition of female vocals to end off. This then goes into ‘Squirrel’, a post punk stomper with a fierce intensity.
‘I Realize That I’m Not So Dumb’ (a lyric from ‘That’s Me’ incidentally), is a steadier number, which the focus shifting to swirling electronics and female vocals whilst maintaining the pulsing rhythm section. ‘Usiku Mweva’ offers respite in the form of an instrumental interlude. Normal service is resumed with ‘Come To Fire’; a heavily punk inspired explicit lyrical piece. ‘Ponytail’ is probably the most accessible track on the album, with its psychedelic vibes and a sound heavily associated with Fuzz Club. ‘Ash’ and ‘Richard’ are a catchy duo with infectious riffs before ‘Home’ is chosen to round off the album.
The Italians are leading the resurgence of the cold wave revival of late, with The Gluts standing proud alongside fellow countrymen Throw Down Bones, whilst UK acts such as Rhys Bloodjoy liven things up a bit closer to home.
The Gluts have always had a DIY punk ethos at their heart and this is evident in their primitive energy which shines through in the record. Although a relatively unknown entity until now, this incessantly noisy album is sure to make a mark.
You can pre-order the album here: https://fuzzclub.com/products/the-gluts-estasi
