In the realm of experimental music, where artists push boundaries and challenge conventions, Avery Dart's Lurkers of Languid Waters stands as a peculiar and ambitious endeavor. Dart, the mastermind behind the ambient/black metal project Escaping Aghartha, has crafted an album that aims to raise awareness about the plight of eels, particularly the freshwater anguillid eels facing overfishing threats. While the concept is noble, the execution leaves much to be desired, leaving listeners with a mixed experience that is as slippery as its subject.
What makes this album particularly fascinating is Dart's attempt to capture the essence of eels through music. The album's 74-minute runtime is a journey through various genres, from progressive black metal to doom, drone, noise, industrial, ambient, and even dungeon synth. However, what makes this album truly intriguing is its ability to shift and transform, mirroring the shapeshifting nature of eels. The album's opening track, "Eel Black Market," sets the tone with its struggle to find purpose, leaving listeners with a sense of unease and discomfort, much like the eels' plight.
One thing that immediately stands out is Dart's vocal choices. The vocals, mostly from Dart himself, range from tolerable to unlistenable, with grating snarls and muffled whispers. This is particularly interesting as it reflects the eels' journey, from their final journey to the Sargasso Sea to their stored fat reserves. The album's experimental sections, such as bell chimes and mosquito-like buzzing, feel added without musical purpose, just random noise. This raises a deeper question: is the album's discomfort intentional, or is it simply a result of poor execution?
As the album progresses, it undergoes a transformation, with hooks catching hold and the music becoming more engaging. The album's second half, particularly the track "Journey to the Sargasso Sea," is where things really take a turn for the best. The synths and trems team up to conjure an uplifting, triumphant mood, serving as the soundtrack for the eel's final journey. This is a testament to the power of hooks and the importance of structure in music.
From my perspective, the album's purpose is to spark interest, conversation, and perhaps even action to protect these misunderstood fish. Yet, the mere existence of this album can only go so far if it's a chore to listen to. I spent time with it because I took on the duty of reviewing it, but others likely won't be so willing. I'd be more tempted to plunk down some money on a CD, which does feature some terrific artwork, if the music were just a little more tolerable. I'd love to help defend a cause like this, but my ears are important too.
In conclusion, Lurkers of Languid Waters is a noble attempt to raise awareness about the plight of eels, but it falls short in terms of execution. The album's discomfort and lack of musical purpose make it a challenging listen, leaving listeners with a mixed experience. While the album's second half is a welcome transformation, the overall experience is one that leaves a lot to be desired. Perhaps, in the future, Dart can refine his approach and create an album that is both engaging and impactful, leaving a lasting impression on listeners and inspiring action for the cause.
