Seth Graham, Mari Rubio alias more eaze, and Galen Tipton known as recovery girl have released their new album titled Night of Fire. This collaborative project under the unpronounceable moniker __________ aims to disrupt conventional perceptions of music while addressing the complex emotional landscapes shaped by each artist's upbringing and the socio-political climate in the United States.
Graham, who has a rich background in Ohio's Christian hardcore scene, co-founded the experimental label Orange Milk Records and has evolved his artistry under different aliases. His formative experiences at shows in conservative church settings laid the groundwork for his unexpected musical direction. Rubio's move from Texas to New York, escaping a difficult personal situation, has significantly informed her sound, characterized by soft-noise and ethereal collaborations. On their previous album, The Heart Pumps Kool-Aid, the duo explored themes of dread through minimalist structures and bursts of hyperpop.
In Night of Fire, recovery girl's contribution marks a departure from her earlier work, where she channels her raw experiences into aggressive screamo-infused layers, juxtaposing Rubio's delicate vocals and Graham's fragmented musical architecture. The album’s narrative reflects broader anxieties about personal and societal breakdown against a backdrop of contemporary challenges.
The record opens with "Christian Rock" and closes with "When God Released Me," effectively framing the artists' personal narratives within an American context of emotional strife and radical expression. Tracks like "Eating out on Christmas" poignantly capture personal turmoil amid social decay, offering a candid exploration of the struggles in personal relationships against the backdrop of disillusionment.
Night of Fire is marked by themes of violence and chaos, encapsulated in phrases like “the banal evil of just letting these awful things happen.” The artists invite listeners to reflect on the hardships facing many individuals in today’s world. The album speaks to an urgency to challenge the passive consumption of music and the culture that often accompanies it.
In a recent interview, the creators discussed the significance of their collaborative process and the emotional weight behind the lyrics in Night of Fire. The project is a culmination of their diverse influences and painful experiences during a period defined by personal loss, societal upheaval, and the relentless pursuit of artistic authenticity. It stands as a testament to their growth both as artists and individuals, aiming to awaken listeners from what Graham describes as their "algorithmic slumber," drawing real and visceral emotions out of the noise.
Night of Fire is available for streaming now, and fans can explore the vibrant blend of styles and sentiments that these three artists have worked to create.