FACS - Present Tense (Album Review)

 


FACS - Present Tense

(2021)


My copy: 2021 repress on molten metal vinyl by Trouble In Mind


FACS features members of prior Chicago band Disappears, and before that 90 Day Men. Where the previous bands dabbled in razer-pointed riffs, FACS instead has opted for dense, layered walls of texture mixed with chaotic guitar squeals. “XOUT” exemplifies the new mission statement perfectly; a distorted bassline suspends prodding guitar and noise sections as the drums also crackle and churn. Vocal effects are used well throughout the album to give the songs a warped vibe.

“Strawberry Cough” probably has the most pop sensibilities with its whirling, echoed guitar and catchy choruses. FACS have crafted something heavy but translucent at the same time; the tracks are largely post-punk vignettes with just the right amount of chaos behind the scenes. The nearly ten-minute “Alone Without” channels slight touches of post-rock; the guitar is often a wallpaper of texture for the dirty bass grooves and percussive snaps. The freaky vocal effects give a sense of tension but at times can be a bit much. “Alone Without” is a sputtering demonstration in subtlety, and one that works quite well. 

The more direct post-punk tracks like “General Public” or “Present Tense” mess with the structure enough to keep listeners coming back to discover new sonic details. FACS weaves in psychedelic influence on more melodic tracks like “How To See In The Dark” or “Mirrored.” Front-man Brian Case can shift from charismatic to sinister on a whim, and almost brings a goth element with the affected vocals.

While the guitar delivers a wide array of unique sounds, the drum and bass combo may very well be the hero of this record as there are many tracks with absolutely nasty bass lines that not only act as an anchor to the song but also play addicting parts that will themselves be stuck in your head. FACS are clear masters of their specific style, and on this record you will be jolted and bombarded with enough weird sounds to last you a lifetime.

This copy is easy to get and looks very cool.


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