Musicians don’t have the luxury of choosing who shows up to their gigs, so in the case of long-time experimental artist Russell Haswell, self-assurance and a bit of bravery are perhaps necessary going into venues, where idiots are destined to show up and wonder whether the crazy sounds being delivered actually constitute “music.” These notable jerks have even, according to a press release, thrown bottles at Haswell and physically disrupted his performances by “shutting his laptop” and/or “pulling his leads out,” to which he philosophically responds, “it’s all part of the story.”
Haswell is continuing the story in 2018 with a new mini-album called Respondent, which is the first album of his to feature not just vocals from Glasgow-based singer and visual artist, Sue Tompkins, but any vocals whatsoever. Respondent is a precursor to a full-grown album said to “feature a number of guests.” You gotta get with his friends if you want to follow this eletroacoustic journey off the deep end.
Respondent is out this Friday, February 2, on Diagonal Records. To get a taste, check out the video (which Haswell directed) for “Special Long Version” here:
Respondent tracklisting:
01. The Surface Is Unrevealing
02. First In Man (Williams Mix)
03. Worsening Daily
04. Special Long Version Demo feat. Sue Tompkins
05. Let Suffering Become You
More about: Russell Haswell
