Melt-Banana – 666 6-inch
Level Plane
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It’s not every day that one receives a vinyl record in the mail. One probably never unexpectedly receives a 6″ vinyl record in the mail (unless you mail-ordered your 1950s breakfast cereal). Upon lowering the needle, I had no room for expectations.
Melt-Banana (Japan) varies their sound a bit on the 666 6-inch, which consists of 6 minutes of music divided into 3 songs. This 6″ is released after 6 full-lengths. From a fast, tinny hardcore base they reach into a hip-hop beat with electronic static and even a dub-influenced groove alternating with the usual fast noise. We also hear what may be Mighty Mouse squeaking angrily in an incomprehensible voice.
Melt-Banana’s sounds could be described as “challenging”, but this would be due to the minimalist style, high noise level, and the mystery lyrics. While song names are in English, they may be sung in English, Japanese, or some hybrid. Truly a challenge. This music is not awe-inspiring, but I would bet a live show is something to behold.
