WL//WH Album Review NO “Desire Kills”
On May 19th, Antonio Pavao Pereira, who signs his works as NO (from Montreal), released his brand new excellent album “Desire Kills” LP via the unique boutique of TONN RECORDINGS (Belfast). It is an album featuring 10 new episodes of music that exists within this person’s cells, characterized by high energy and a sonic aesthetic that we have grown accustomed to over the years. May I hear it all, from post-punk through electronic music, that ultimately leads to the cold wave? Because that’s exactly what it is—after all these years, NO doubt about it. He brings a fantastic sense of musicality, timing, and narrative, which are the essential ingredients of his music. These qualities also serve as his credentials, allowing TONN RECORDINGS to trust him continuously. As a result, both of them come out as winners in this mutual relationship.
The new “Desire Kills” LP continues the ‘tradition’ of all his previous releases, boldly exploring the new, brave world that he so faithfully and controversially glorifies with his words and tools in the studio. You know, his records have a unique advantage, which doesn’t overshadow anything else within this album; someone can listen to the entire album without interruption, or they can select specific tracks to create a more fragmented listening experience. They might intentionally mix up the canvas of the songs, leaving us all wondering, “But wait, does the album have 10 maxi singles?”
Here is the mechanical musical recording of the events of the era, as they are re-filtered in some (home?) studio within the urban fabric, and the directness of his thoughts and ideas is fully reflected in his music. There is nothing “fantasy” in here; there is only the living life with pace.
I encourage you to revisit NO‘s earlier releases and compare ‘the events’ with his latest album. I notice a certain and clear evolution in his musical approach—a music machine that springs to life without hesitation, but only when there’s a clear path to follow. Antonio Pavao Pereira isn’t the type of musician who chatters endlessly in a café; instead, he seems to thrive on isolation, whether literally or figuratively. This solitude allows him to channel the fire within his soul and create exceptional cold wave music that resonates with purpose and focus.
I guess I said it all, right? Well, here we go, press play, and listen loud (without headphones, pls)!!!
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Written by Mike D.
