Description
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Vanishing Twin’s 2019 release, The Age of Immunology, stands as a powerful statement of cultural integration and musical experimentation. Formed by Cathy Lucas, the band has evolved into a collective featuring the innovative talents of drummer Valentina Magaletti and bassist Susumu Mukai. Drawing on the diverse backgrounds of its members, Vanishing Twin has crafted a unique sound that blends elements of kosmische, minimalism, post-punk, and psychedelic pop. The album is a rich exploration of these influences, echoing the avant-garde spirit of artists like David Axelrod and the dreamlike qualities of Scott Walker.
The album’s eight tracks showcase a meticulous layering of instruments, samples, and found sounds, creating a sonic landscape that is both intricate and immersive. Lucas’s use of her voice as an instrument adds to the album’s surreal atmosphere, weaving through infectious grooves and minimalist compositions. Tracks like “Subito” and “The Age of Immunology” illustrate the band’s ability to balance rhythmic drive with experimental soundscapes, while more ambitious pieces like “The Down Below” and “Lazy Garden” push the boundaries of psychedelic avant-gardism, reminiscent of the work of Sun Ra and Jean-Claude Vannier.
The Age of Immunology was conceived as a response to the increasingly divisive world we live in, drawing on the book by anthropologist A. David Napier. The album’s themes of inclusion and cultural exchange are reflected in its multilingual lyrics and the global origins of its creators. Vanishing Twin’s members, hailing from Belgium, Japan, Italy, and beyond, have made England their home, using this album to advocate for a more pluralistic and open world. This vision is encapsulated in tracks like “You Are Not an Island” and “Planète Sauvage,” where the band’s eclectic influences come together to create a sound that is both retro and forward-looking, paying homage to the past while envisioning a better future.
Produced in unconventional settings, including an abandoned mill in Sudbury and live recordings on the Croatian island of Krk, the album’s production process itself reflects the band’s commitment to breaking down traditional barriers. With contributions from trusted collaborators like Malcolm Catto of The Heliocentrics and engineer Syd Kemp, The Age of Immunology is a testament to Vanishing Twin’s innovative approach to music-making. The album not only challenges the listener’s perceptions of genre and sound but also serves as a rallying cry for cultural unity in a time of increasing division, making it an essential listen for those who appreciate the intersection of music, culture, and social commentary.
