When you pop in the latest Magik Markers disastro-piece, you begin preparing yourself for an onslaught of distortion, noise, orgasms, and violence. But no matter how much your prepare, no matter the amount of armor, no matter the expectations, you'll be lying on the floor in the fetal position begging for more by the time the overture finishes its last squeal.
A Panegyric to the Things I Do Not Understand may lead you to believe it's a blitz of two-minute song after two-minute song, however the album contains itself to two mind-altering tracks: the California Side and the Paris Side. Somehow the Magik Markers have forged these short melodies into heavy-hitting long runners. There isn't much to differentiate one side from another—both run the same length, both are walls of blistering noise and Elisa's southern Baptist delivery—but somehow this album is able to separate itself from previous Magik Marker releases. The sound hasn't changed; it's just grown and expanded. The passion hasn't faded; it's just been redirected. It's easy for non-fans to listen to the slew of LPs, CDs, and cassettes the Markers have released and hear the same old distortion/screaming/droning bass/loud cymbal crashes, but Panegyric is able to force itself out of the mold. Songs are discernable, instruments are crisp and alive, and each member is given the spotlight to melt your brain. The band's unhinged live performances are only rivaled by their unhinged studio releases. If you can't get behind the noise, then go fuck yourself. Then use this album to go scare the neighbors.
1. California Side
2. Paris Side
More about: The Magik Markers
