VAZUM – Western Violence
VAZUM, formed in Detroit, MI in 2017, consists of Zach Pliska (vocals, guitars, drums) and Emily Sturm (vocals, bass, keyboards). Their latest album, “Western Violence,” immerses listeners in a rich 1980s aesthetic reminiscent of bands like Christian Death and Siouxsie Sioux. This album strikes a delicate balance between ethereal and raw, blending Emily Sturm’s haunting vocals with intense, dramatic, and heavy instrumentation. The production of “Western Violence” stands out in particular for its distinctive emphasis on lo-fi components, which provide the album an underground vibe, especially in the guitar sounds. The realism of the record is enhanced by this unrefined and raw approach, which results in a sound that is simultaneously creative and nostalgic. “Aliens,” a piece that explores existentialist and extraterrestrial presence, is one of the album’s highlights. The lyrics examine a cosmic story while reflecting on humanity’s role in the cosmos and our relationships with the unknown:
“You can’t escape the facts
They were here first, we’re last
Beams of light from the night sky
Our bodies are dust
And if they ever ask
What became of us
We weren’t up to the task”
These lyrics reveal a serious reflection on the weaknesses of humanity and our place in the cosmos. Being “aliens” is an ongoing subject that emphasizes a feeling of disorientation and the desire to belong, both on Earth and in the universe. “Western Violence” is a powerful album that successfully reflects the spirit of 1980s post-punk and gothic rock. The way that VAZUM combines raw, lo-fi production with ethereal vocals results in an interesting listening experience that has a cool result.
