Have you ever read the Edgar Alan Poe story titled A Decent Into Maelstrom? As BYE begins, the wash of noise overwhelms the listener. This is similar to the old man in Poe's story describing his tale, he asks the listener: "and if you will creep round this crag, so as to get in its lee, and deaden the roar of the water, I will tell you a story that will convince you I ought to know something of the Moskoe-strom." As BYE reveals itself to the listener, i can not help but think of how the music fits with the grandeur of the whir pool and the survivor relaying his descent and escape to the listener. Both start with chaos and mystery only to subside and convey depth that will only be guessed upon.
Patrick Piper is about a half hour story in sound. The world within these spools is immensely telling of skilled craftsmen and their visions. What starts as an eruption of electric noise gives way to beautiful notes refracting sound and creating the warm glow similar to a setting sun. There is tranquility here, created by patience and knowledge. Drone with a touch of dry vermouth. Relaxed but slightly bothered by an alien world trying to get in. Initiating as a harrowing experience the sound unfolds with charm and a repartee, asking to be listened to again. With the next play, we can hear closer and let go even more.
Tiny Mix Tapes (Cerberus):
The first I thought I had as Bye unfurled its colorful wings was, “I hope this isn’t goodbye.” In fact, this is a minor plea to Mr. Piper to stay. Much like the classic television episode “Farewell My Little Viking,” I can’t stand to see this minor but powerful character leave. It’s selfish and conceited but I’m not done with Piper or Bye just yet. There’s so much to learn, so much to hear. Unlike Little Pete, I have yet to sop up all the wisdom this cassette has to offer. Its tough exterior does show hints of a soft interior – a contemplative beast with the strength of a million Arties but it’ll take time and exposure to see all of its layers. At least a season and a half. So don’t say Bye. Hopefully this is a mellow, but confusing hello.
Tiny Mix Tapes (Chocolate Grinder):
Have you ever played hopscotch? You know, the game where you drink a bunch of scotch and watch that movie HOP on repeat? If you have, I’m proud of you. If you haven’t, grow the fuck up and be somebody.
Wait a minute. That’s horrible advice. Instead of that stupid idea, why not spend your free time listening to Patrick Piper’s latest cassette, Bye?
It all begins with his white-walled, clarity-massacred guitar loops, building and sponging up your happiness. Then, a tattoo needle and/or neon sign begins buzzing intermittently and constantly within the mix. Next, jolts of percussive chair tosses and scraps start riding shotgun. Finally, frail and sullen guitar drones drone out into infinity, as they are know to do, and wash away all of your “aboutness”, letting you breathe without thinking about breathing.
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