USA/MEXICO – Matamoros

USA/MEXICO could be considered a supergroup, with members Nate Cross of When Dinosaurs Ruled The Earth, King Coffey of the Butthole Surfers, and Craig Clouse of Shit & Shine. So it’s no surprise that their first album, Laredo, which was released back in 2017, was quite well received amongst critics and fans, even though it’s anything but easy listening.

Two years later, the three noise enthusiasts finally decided to release yet another mammoth of sound. They call it Matamoros, and it is a blend of Noise, Doom, Drone, and Stoner I have never heard before. The official blurb explains, USA/MEXICO are looking to “expand your sonic palette” – and they do so in an impressive manner.

It doesn’t make sense to go track-by-track on this 5 song LP, since you should listen to this album in full, rather than just at a song or two. Complex soundscapes turn noise into melody, and the sheer sound of the droning bass, the menacing guitar, and slow drums create such a heavy, all-encompassing sound you almost feel exhausted afterwards.

Imagine Einstürzende Neubauten have a lovechild with Kyuss, Sunn O))), and Electric Wizard. Underlying the whole soundscape is this feeling of impending doom, a sublimity that would’ve made H.P. Lovecraft proud. This album is definitely not something you put on on a sunny day, and it is best experienced through headphones. Because what USA/MEXICO created here will take you deep into a maelstrom, wandering through post-apocalyptic soundscapes which are wonderful yet frightening. Yet, just like with Lovecraft’s Necronomicon, you will come back to it time and again. I can not recommend this trip enough – at least give it a try.

But don’t take my word for it, just listen for yourself.