Merging the combined talents of one of Germanys most influential and well respected post rock bands Collapse Under the Empire with the blissfully talented yet reclusive Russian post rock quintet Mooncake, give us the heady ingredients that are used to make Black Moon Empire, arguably one of this years most eagerly anticipated EPs. Containing five tracks, two from either group and the titular collaborative effort, both bands admit the split can be seen as a cogent step in anticipation of their forthcoming new albums later this year. And believe me going on the evidence provided on Black Moon Empire these releases cannot come soon enough.
The EP sweeps into life with the above mentioned collaboration Black Moon Empire, a dazzling blend of the joyous, melodic indulgence of Mooncake with the raw, powerful surge that is Collapse Under the Empire, clearly stating the insane musical chemistry shared between the two groups. This raw, menacing power is continued by Collapse Under the Empire on Spark, with its dirty, brooding bassline and off kilter, distorted, unremitting guitars, it is a master class by the German outfit in effective minimalist post rock.
For me however the stand out track on the EP comes with the beautiful Turquoise by Mooncake, which sways most graciously on the wave of your soul with its sumptuous strings and heart wrenching, angelic combination of pitch and rhythm, an absolute gem. Mooncakes other offering on the EP Novorossiysk 1968, which magnificently builds and builds to its grandiose peaks, is used as a perfect means on which to bring proceedings to a close.
Black Moon Empire should not be seen as just a collection of songs, but as an inspired venture between two bands whose unique styles interweave and play impishly off one another. This is a truly remarkable example of two artists sharing one canvas and creating something rather exceptional.
Stream the EP here
