aaamusic | On 21, Aug 2011

Pleasure is the debut LP from Austin, Texas based psychedelic minimalist trio Pure X. It contains ten marvellously distorted tracks which glide beautifully and delicately.

 

Previously of the group Pure Ecstasy, Pure X is three long-term friends, Nate Grace, Jesse Jenkins and Austin Youngblood.

Influenced by grunge and soul, they’re a bit like The Jesus and Mary Chain.  Their sounds on Pleasure resemble a mysterious puzzle, simple yet sensual and passionate.  Produced live, with all instruments recorded simultaneously, the songs are in their purest of forms, with all mistakes included.

Gradually the album unfolds in a dreamy, unhurried way that creeps up upon you. Some of the songs are so lazy and tired, they could easily lull you to sleep. The album takes you on a hypnotic journey where you sleepwalk through a relaxed, foggy haze accompanied by echoed harmonies.

It’s the endless layers of sound textures that make the album feel heavy. It may feel a bit aimless, but it’s well made, atmospheric music. The engrossing collection of songs will haunt you, though the whirring tones may seem a bit repetitive to some.

 

Author: Anthony Weightman