In their latest single, “Osiris at the Large Hadron Collider,” Bristol-based art rock ensemble Erotic Secrets of Pompeii (ESOP) takes listeners on a dark and immersive journey that skillfully straddles the realms of post-punk and art rock. The track, both mischievous and brooding, showcases the band’s distinctive sound and artistic prowess.
At first glance, the song appears to be a collision of worlds – the ancient Egyptian god of the dead, Osiris, confronting the pinnacle of modern technological achievement, the Large Hadron Collider. This juxtaposition serves as a symbolic bridge between the old and the new, a theme that resonates throughout the track. Yet, beneath the surface, “Osiris at the Large Hadron Collider” delves into profound themes of hubris, supersedence, and the delicate nature of the human condition.
Frontman Thomas Hawtin provides insight into the thematic depth of the song, describing it as “a regretful realization set to frenetic, staccato guitars and a pounding rhythm section.” The instrumentation mirrors the thematic intensity, propelling the song forward in a maniacal, mechanical motion. The choruses, with their cult-like vocal harmonies, amplify the emotional weight of the narrative, creating an unforgettable sonic experience.
The lyrics of the song, wrapped in the enigmatic veil of ESOP’s signature style, explore humanity’s complex relationship with death, faith, and power. It becomes evident that “Osiris at the Large Hadron Collider” is not just a collision of historical and technological elements, but a reflection on the timeless human obsessions that persist across ages.
ESOP’s ability to seamlessly blend genres is evident in the musical composition, which features a dynamic interplay of guitar riffs, a relentless rhythm section, and haunting vocal harmonies. The result is a multi-layered sonic tapestry that captivates the listener from start to finish.
The title alone suggests a cosmic and monumental theme, and ESOP delivers on this promise with a track that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally charged. “Osiris at the Large Hadron Collider” stands as a testament to Erotic Secrets of Pompeii’s artistic evolution and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of conventional music.
In conclusion, Erotic Secrets of Pompeii’s latest single is a triumph of artistic expression and musical innovation. “Osiris at the Large Hadron Collider” invites listeners to explore the intersections of mythology and modernity while challenging preconceived notions about the boundaries of musical genres. ESOP continues to assert themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the alternative music scene, leaving audiences eagerly anticipating their next sonic adventure.
ABOUT THE BAND:
Erotic Secrets of Pompeii play wild, weird apocalyptic lounge music – a twisted amalgamation of angular art rock and transgressive post-punk, transmitted directly from the heart of the forbidden zone.
ESOP’s music is populated by grotesque imagery and vivid symbolism, drawing from artists across different mediums, such as Lynch, Dali, Bacon, Blake, Cronenberg, Jodorowsky, Mapplethorpe.
The band released their debut EP, Trash Jugular, at the end of 2022 which was followed by a UK headline tour in early 2023, and a handful of appearances at major festivals including Boomtown and Bearded Theory.
They are due to support Electric Six on tour in the UK, in December 2023. Their debut album Mondo Maleficum is scheduled for release in January 2024.
ESOP’s music has received support from BBC Radio 6, Radio X and BBC Introducing.
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