A Revolt of Everything Conventional
zornketahl | Wilmington, NC USA | 03/17/2002
(4 out of 5 stars)
"This is probably Coil's most primal CDs, because it was also one of their earliest releases (originally in 1984). Transparent is without a doubt their most difficult listen, because it is more soundscapes of droning, grinding, and uneveness, rather than conventional "songs". Just like anything by this band, it takes a few listens to appreciate, yet the highlight song "Rape" is raw emotion with its incessant, synthesized notes that form a guteral rhythm. I believe that song was redubbed for one of the Hellraiser movies (probably #2 or 3). And "Truth" seems to be a tape of the speech Charles Manson made in court, overlapped by several disturbingly eerie soundscapes. If you are familiar with Coil, you already know their music is very minimalistic, but upon listening to it- letting it absorb into your system; making it yours- you can begin to understand their music. I enjoy this album immensly, but then again I like weird things, so I recommend starting with "Musick to Play in the Dark 1, or 2" or "Love's Secret Domain", "Black Light District",or one of their eirlier works. It is all very beautiful if you give it a chance, and allow yet some patience."