History of Guns – When You Don’t Matter
The Cheshunt, Hertfordshire-based band History of Guns is pushing the genre envelope with their song “When You Don’t Matter.” Established in 1996, the group uses a varied range of sounds to delve into the human experience. This song explores a dark, dystopian atmosphere that is both creepy and fascinating. It features founding members Del Alien (vocals) and Max Rael (keyboards, programming), together with guitarist Caden Clarkson. The song “When You Don’t Matter” begins with a dizzying synth line and a sequence of enigmatic, repeated rhythms. The listener is quickly drawn into an unsettling yet interesting setting via the use of reverb and other sound effects. Del Alien’s vocals come in around 0:27, delivering a somber, story-driven performance that blends in wonderfully with the lush electronic background. The track’s structure is reminiscent of Philip Glass’s minimalist compositions, employing repetition to create a hypnotic effect. This is blended with a post-punk meets electronica orchestration that becomes especially pronounced at 2:02, where the 1980s dark wave inspiration is unmistakable. However, History of Guns reinterprets these retro sounds with a fresh emotional intensity, producing music that feels both nostalgic and original. The blend of dark wave romance and industrial energy results in a rich, textured collage of dark sounds. Fans of Alien Sex Fiend and Bauhaus will find much to appreciate here, as the band channels the spirit of these influences while carving out their unique space in the genre. The track’s production is polished yet retains an edge, ensuring that it remains engaging throughout its duration.
