Artist: Earth Album: Earth 2: Special Low Frequency Version

Year: 1993
Duration: 1:13:02

A Critical Review of Earth 2: Special Low Frequency Version

Earth is a drone metal band that emerged from Seattle, Washington, in 1989. The band was founded by Dylan Carlson, who has remained the only constant member throughout its history. Earth is often credited as one of the pioneers of the drone metal sub-genre, with their early works showing a strong influence from minimalist composers like La Monte Young and Terry Riley. Earth's second album, Earth 2: Special Low Frequency Version, is considered one of the landmarks of drone metal. Released in 1993, this album features nothing but slow, heavy riffs played at an extremely low frequency, with only sparse drumming in some tracks. In this blog post, we will provide a critical review of Earth 2, with a brief history of the artist, an analysis of the music genre, the best songs of the album, the most innovative parts, and a critic to the album.

Earth's music is often described as a meditative experience, with their long, repetitive riffs inducing a trance-like state. Earth 2, however, takes this concept to the extreme. Most of the songs on the album consist of only one or two riffs that are repeated throughout the entire track. The result is a suffocating feeling that can be intimidating to some listeners, but also mesmerizing to others. Earth 2 doesn't aim to entertain or impress; it rather intends to be a sonic trip that transports the listener to a different state of consciousness.

The low frequency of the album is a key feature that enhances its oppressive atmosphere. The record is meant to be played at a very high volume, which is necessary to fully appreciate its depth and density. The guitar and bass tones are so low that they can make your chest vibrate, and the sensation is similar to standing near a large speaker stack at a live concert. This physical impact is an essential component of the Earth 2 experience, as the music goes beyond just an auditory experience and becomes almost tactile.

Despite the minimalistic approach of the album, some songs stand out from the rest. The opening track Seven Angels sets the tone for the record with a crawling riff that slowly builds up to a maelstrom of distortion. Like Gold and Faceted is another highlight, with its hypnotic repeated pattern that evolves into a cinematic climax. Teeth of Lions Rule the Divine is perhaps the best-known song on the album, featuring a guest appearance by Kurt Cobain on drums. The track is a perfect example of the balance between earth-shattering heaviness and melodic beauty that Earth is capable of.

The innovation of Earth 2 lies in its simplicity and the way it pushes the boundaries of what can be considered music. Earth abandons traditional song structures and focuses on creating an atmosphere of heaviness and darkness that is unparalleled in the metal genre. The band's use of extreme low frequency is also groundbreaking, and has influenced many artists in the drone and doom metal scenes. Earth 2 is a true masterpiece of minimalism, and a landmark album that changed the course of underground heavy music.

However, despite its undeniable influence and ground-breaking sound, Earth 2 is not for everyone. The album requires patience and an open mind to appreciate its unique qualities. The lack of melody and variety may be too much for some listeners, and the exhausting length of the songs (most of them run over 10 minutes) can be an endurance test. Also, the album's crushing heaviness can be overwhelming, and may not be suitable for every mood or occasion. But for those who are willing to embark on the journey that is Earth 2, the rewards are numerous.

In conclusion, Earth 2: Special Low Frequency Version is an essential album for anyone interested in the origins of drone and doom metal. Its groundbreaking sound, extreme use of low frequency, and minimalistic approach make it a unique listening experience that can be both alienating and captivating. Earth has continued to evolve throughout the years, and has released numerous other amazing records, but Earth 2 remains their most iconic and influential work. Whether you love it or hate it, there's no denying the impact this album has had on the underground music scene.

In conclusion, Earth 2: Special Low Frequency Version is an essential album for anyone interested in the origins of drone and doom metal. Its groundbreaking sound, extreme use of low frequency, and minimalistic approach make it a unique listening experience that can be both alienating and captivating. Earth has continued to evolve throughout the years, and has released numerous other amazing records, but Earth 2 remains their most iconic and influential work. Whether you love it or hate it, there's no denying the impact this album has had on the underground music scene.