Merzbow "Mercurated" LP

Limited Edition of 299 copies. Black vinyl. Urashima present the eagerly awaited reissue of Merzbow's seminal album Mercurated on double vinyl, originally released on CD in 1996 by Alchemy Records. This milestone in the noise genre captures the essence of Masami Akita's innovative approach to sound, an exploration of the boundaries of auditory experience that continues to resonate with artists and listeners alike. The new vinyl edition features a remaster by James Plotkin, whose expertise breathes new life into the album, revealing the intricate layers hidden within Merzbow's amazing work. In this reimagined format, the album presents "Electricwatersheep" divided into two distinct sections: A1, which encompasses the entire A side of the vinyl, and B1, which opens the B side. This piece is a hallmark of Merzbow's chaotic yet meticulously crafted style, showcasing his prowess in noise electronics through an electrifying mix of metal performances and a diverse array of filters. Each section invites the listener to plunge deeper into a sonic terrain where silence is shattered, creating an immersive auditory journey that is as unpredictable as it is captivating. Side B continues with "Semisolid Mass 1-3," a brand-new bonus track exclusive to this vinyl release. This addition serves to deepen the listener's experience, expanding upon the album's already rich sonic palette with a uniquely disorienting atmosphere that is characteristic of Merzbow's artistic vision. On Side C, "Tree of Kusukusu" envelops the listener in a phantasmagoric soundscape crafted from bowed metals and the eerie tones of the Ems Synthi "a," all accentuated by meticulous filtering techniques. Side D concludes the journey with "Surfactant," presenting another quintessential Merzbow composition. Here, the interplay of metal and electronic noise converges, showcasing Akita's artistic finesse and his relentless quest to explore sound as a medium of both chaos and beauty. Each track on Mercurated stands on its own, providing a coherent yet varied listening experience that invites repeat contemplation. This stunning double vinyl reissue comes in an astonishing gatefold cover mirroring the original artwork, beautifully designed by Masami Akita himself, ensuring that the visual component is as striking as the auditory experience. The design work by Masahiko Ohno further enhances the presentation, making this release not just a collection of sounds but a holistic sensory experience.