Hesse Kassel and La Brea Collaboration on The Quietus

opalleting, and possible. The sextet from Santiago spend most of their debut trawling dark, gristly undertow, but within their sprawling, flowing ten minute songs, they always break through into euphoria.

Drawing inspiration from post-rock and post-hardcore genres, Hesse Kassel blends elements of Godspeed You! Black Emperor’s crescendos, Spiderland’s skeletal sketches, and Swans’ intense firestorms into a cohesive and enthralling sound. The band seamlessly weaves together various musical segments while expertly controlling tension and release, showcasing a youthful ambition that effortlessly captivates listeners. Just over two years since their formation, Hesse Kassel has quickly become a formidable and well-rounded musical force.

The album’s opening track, ‘Postparto’, sets the tone for the entire record, transitioning from tension and paranoia to euphoria. Lead guitarists Luca Cosignani and Mauricio Rosas create intricate melodies, while frontman Renatto Olivares delivers emotionally charged vocals and striking saxophone lines. Despite the Spanish lyrics, Olivares’ passionate delivery allows listeners to connect with the meaning behind the words.

The band’s intuitive chemistry is evident throughout the album, with seamless melodic interplay between the musicians adding depth and dimension to the music. Tracks like ‘A. Latur’ and ‘Yo La Tengo’ showcase the band’s versatility and dynamic energy, blending razor-sharp riffs with frenetic saxophone skronks to create a powerful sonic experience.

While La Brea delves into dark and heavy themes, it also explores moments of naked beauty and ecstatic joy. Songs like ‘Anova’, ‘Americana’, and ‘Moussa’ showcase the band’s range, from haunting love ballads to ambient, patient compositions. The album’s influences can be traced back to bands like Black Country, New Road, but Hesse Kassel’s unique vision and conviction ensure that they stand out as a distinctive and original musical act.

Overall, La Brea stands as a testament to Hesse Kassel’s ambition, creativity, and unwavering dedication to their craft. As a self-released debut, the album exemplifies the raw talent and innovation present in the Chilean music scene, making it a standout record worth exploring. Be sure to check out La Brea on Bandcamp for a truly powerful and immersive musical experience.