Exploring Kayo Dot’s "Every Rock, Every Half-Truth Under Reason"

Toby Driver, the mastermind behind Kayo Dot, has always been synonymous with unpredictability. His musical journey began with maudlin Of The Well, where he explored avant-prog rooted in death metal. The early album, My Fruit Psychobells… A Seed Combustible, showcased a looser take on the genre, paving the way for a complex duology that delved into experimental metal and progressive rock with Bath and Leaving Your Body Map. After a hiatus, Kayo Dot emerged, bringing with it a new level of eclecticism that would redefine the boundaries of genre.

The Evolution of Kayo Dot

Kayo Dot’s discography is a labyrinth of sounds, making maudlin Of The Well seem almost straightforward in comparison. Their debut album, Choirs of the Eye, released under John Zorn’s Composer series, marked a significant departure from their metal roots. It embraced elements of chamber music, jazz, and post-rock, establishing a pattern of inconsistency that would characterize the band’s evolution. Driver’s rotating cast of musicians has explored various styles, from gothic to electronic, often with remarkable success.

A New Chapter: Celebrating Two Decades

The announcement of a new album to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Choirs of the Eye raised eyebrows. Would this be a nostalgic return to form, or would it reflect Driver’s commitment to innovation? Following the critical acclaim of Moss Grew on the Swords and Plowshares Alike, fans were eager to see how the original lineup would approach this new project. Upon listening, it became evident that this was not a sequel but rather a bold exploration of new territory.

Liminal Metal: A New Soundscape

Kayo Dot describes their latest work, Every Rock, Every Half-Truth Under Reason, as “liminal metal.” This term may provoke a raised eyebrow, but the opening track, “Mental Shed,” sets the tone. The track features raspy growls layered over a thick, droning soundscape, evoking a sense of dread and unease. The atmosphere is reminiscent of horror movie soundtracks, creating a ghostly presence that lingers throughout the album.

The album’s themes reflect a cultural moment where the future feels indistinct, and the present is haunted by the past. Driver’s lyrics grapple with the cyclical nature of culture and the encroaching threat of generative AI on human creativity. This commentary resonates deeply in an age where technology often regurgitates rather than innovates.

Track Breakdown: A Journey Through Sound

The album comprises five lengthy tracks, each a unique exploration of sound and emotion. The transition from “Mental Shed” to the first single, “Oracle by Severed Head,” showcases a shift from eerie drone to a post-rock swell, reminiscent of Godspeed You! Black Emperor. Yet, any similarities are fleeting, as the track evolves into a chaotic blend of jazz and chamber music.

“Closet Door in the Room She Died” intensifies the album’s tension with its unnerving drone and Driver’s haunting vocal performance. This track stands out as one of the most intense moments, encapsulating the album’s overarching themes of anxiety and dread.

The centerpiece, “Automatic Writing,” features a massive ambient introduction that builds into a wall of sound, creating a climactic experience for the listener. This track embodies the unpredictability that Kayo Dot is known for, culminating in a tranquil yet haunting conclusion.

The final track offers a nod to the progressive rock theatrics of Pink Floyd, blending desolate melodies with stilted rhythms. This unique approach reinforces the album’s overarching themes while maintaining a sense of mystery and exploration.

Hauntology and Cultural Reflection

Every Rock, Every Half-Truth Under Reason is deeply influenced by the UK-born musical movement of hauntology, characterized by ambient and drone music that evokes a sense of decay. The album reflects on the unease of a world shaped by past creations rather than future possibilities. Driver’s intent is clear: to depict the lingering ghosts of cultural history while forging a new path forward.

The album’s composition is rich with microtonality, utilizing custom instruments and a diverse palette of influences. This results in a sound that feels both timeless and otherworldly, merging horror soundtracks, electroacoustic compositions, and experimental metal into a cohesive whole.

The Unpredictable Nature of Kayo Dot

Throughout his career, Toby Driver has demonstrated a commitment to change and evolution. Every Rock, Every Half-Truth Under Reason exemplifies this impulse, offering a unique listening experience that challenges expectations. The album’s abstract themes and intricate compositions invite listeners to engage deeply, revealing new layers with each listen.

As Kayo Dot continues to push the boundaries of genre, fans can expect the unexpected. This latest release is not just a reflection of the past but a bold step into the unknown, ensuring that Driver’s artistic journey remains as captivating as ever.

Every Rock, Every Half-Truth Under Reason is out now through Prophecy Productions, and it promises to be a thought-provoking addition to Kayo Dot’s already impressive discography.