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#belong #vinyl #vinylrecords
After a thirteen-year hiatus, the experimental music duo Belong, composed of Michael Jones and Turk Dietrich, has made a powerful return with their third full-length album, Realistic IX. Cloaked in mist and propelled by an unyielding drive, this album sees Belong pushing the boundaries of their signature sound, blending ambient styles with electrifying strums and relentless drum beats.
Formed in New Orleans in 2002, Belong quickly established themselves as innovators in the experimental music scene. Their debut album, October Language, recorded in 2004 and released in 2006, introduced their unique sound—a fusion of ambient textures and guitar-based compositions. Critics likened their work to that of contemporary electronica artists like Fennesz and Tim Hecker, while also drawing comparisons to the early 1990s shoegazing bands such as My Bloody Valentine and The Jesus and Mary Chain. Belong’s sound is characterized by guitars and synthesizers run through various effects, creating rich, immersive soundscapes.
In 2008, a fan-ripped version of their Tour EP surfaced online, prompting Belong to offer higher-quality MP3 versions directly to their fans. This approach was repeated for their Same Places EP, showcasing their commitment to sharing their music authentically. Their debut album, October Language, was re-released on vinyl by Geographic North Records in 2009, solidifying its status as a cult classic.
Belong’s second album, Common Era, released in 2011 through Kranky, marked a departure from their earlier work. Introducing elements of krautrock, Common Era distinguished itself from the textured shoegaze and drone of October Language, expanding the duo’s sonic palette and cementing their reputation as musical innovators.
Now, in 2024, Belong returns with Realistic IX, an album that builds on their legacy while pushing their sound into new territories. Tracks like ‘Souvenir’ showcase filtered strums raging alongside heavy drum beats, with enigmatic vocals weaving through the mix. Meanwhile, ‘Image Of Love’ features iridescent guitar tones emerging from a sea of distortion and effects, driven by skittish, shuffling drum machines. The result is a sound that is both familiar and refreshingly new, capturing the essence of Belong’s music while exploring new sonic landscapes.
Realistic IX is a testament to Belong’s enduring appeal and their ability to evolve while staying true to their roots. The album’s intricate textures and relentless rhythms create an immersive listening experience, reaffirming Belong’s place in the pantheon of experimental music. As Michael Jones and Turk Dietrich continue to push the boundaries of their sound, Realistic IX stands as a powerful reminder of their talent and innovation.
