woonk - the effects of noise

Woonk

The Effects Of Noise
self-released; 2014

3.5 out of 5

By Ted Rogen

Hailing from Montreal, Canada Woonk is a project that blends genres such as post-rock, experimental and even pop into songs that often reach for epic heights. On their recent album The Effects of Noise there is an ample amount of sounds for the listener to get lost in. Each song on the album has a very distinct flavor, which keeps it exciting but at the same time takes away from the fluidity of the album. The recording errs on the side of lo-fi and becomes a slight issue when songs implement organic instrumentation such as distorted guitars. That being said there is a lot to appreciate on this album such as the attention to detail and the structure of the songs themselves. 

The album starts off with “Noise,” which tips its hat to the band Explosions In The Sky. It starts off with a rumble before the reverb-laced guitars and accompanying synth create an ethereal atmosphere. The song serves as an introduction that sets you up for the more upbeat and jovial “The Unwanted Sounds of All We Want.” I enjoyed the energy of intersecting guitar parts and synths although I wish the guitars had a bit more meat on them. The song seemed conducive for vocals but none appeared. Nonetheless, there is enough going here to keep your ears happy. “Little Reverb for a Dying Planet” is nostalgic, melancholy post-rock that lays somewhere between Mogwai and Do Make Say Think. “DIssonance” attempts to go all out but unfortunately gets held back by the production. The song is well written and had a very similar vibe to a song from Mogwai called “Mogwai Fear Satan.”

The album closes with the seven-plus minutes “Submissa Voce (Musik Box), which is the highlight of the album. Despite a muddy low end the song soars with some of the best guitar melodies on the album. While still having a foundation in post-rock you also got a Pink Floyd type vibe as well. 

Despite a couple of issues The Effects of Noise was an enjoyable album with peaks and valleys.

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