Man's Gin - Smiling Dogs - COMPACT DISCS [CD]

Formed by Erik Wunder years ago while still living in Colorado, Man's Gin began as an outlet for the Cobalt frontman to write dark booze jams and murder ballads on his acoustic guitar. Recorded and produced by Andrew Schneider (Unsane, Pelican, Cave In, Converge) at Translator Audio in Brooklyn, sophomore album Rebellion Hymns is a emotionally charged, cinematic opus, employing a more expansive sonic palette this time around. The group brings a formidable cast of guest musicians along for the ride, including renowned solo artist and former member of Swans Jarboe, Wunder's Cobalt co-conspirator Phil McSorley, and John LaMaccia of Candiria. A work of genuine wonder and dark beauty, Rebellion Hymns features photography and art direction by respected rock / metal photographer Jimmy Hubbard.

'THIS CANNOT BE SOLD' is KB at his most unapologetic - an album rooted in identity in Christ and a bold rejection of the InchalgorithmInch shaping culture. Blending hard-hitting hip-hop with elements of worship, it delivers a sound that feels disruptive yet deeply rooted in Truth. With collaborations alongside nobigdyl., Ben Fuller, Terrian, Caleb Conley, Ryan Ofei, WHATUPRG, Aklesso, and more, this album is a declaration of what and Who matter most in a time when the algorithm and money dictate all.

A most remarkable CD, demonstrating the real avant-garde in vocal music, requiring phenomenal levels of vocal virtuosity. The performance by Clare Lesser is awesome and an object lesson in how to interpret challenging material.