Totnes-scene post-rock/post-punk band Abrasive Trees, who feature a couple of members (Matthew Rochford and Ben Roberts) of the of the creators of one of E&D’s favourite albums of the year Silver Moth, have announced the premiere of their latest work, ‘Mill Session’ – a short film featuring new songs, interview material and spellbinding visual art, all filmed within an ancient mill.
We thought it would make the perfect opportunity to get Matthew to give us the lowdown on the music that has influenced them.
Rothko – Refuge For Abandoned Souls
Mark Beazley’s music has always been fascinating to me, since I discovered it around 5 years ago and this album is deeply ingrained on my psyche. His ability to channel feelings of loss and grief into layers of intricate distortion and delay is cathartic to listen to and absorb.
This album exemplifies his mastery when it comes to ambience and intensity. It’s honest, delicate and brutal – yet overall leaves you feeling like you’ve been on a significant emotional and spiritual journey.
Fields Of The Nephilim – Dawnrazor
As a teenager I was obsessed with this. Paul Wright’s incredible guitar work has definitely influenced me and the sense of atmosphere on their debut album is exceptional. Add to this the gravelly vocals, distorted guitar of Peter Yates, amazing bass and drums it’s probably one of the best albums of the late 80’s for me.
The samples from Evil Dead definitely give it an edge and Vet For The Insane is probably the best gothic track ever written.
Slint – Spiderland
David Pajo is one of Jay’s (our second guitarist) deepest influences and Spiderland is a much loved album in the band. I think it’s one of those albums that change things a lot, and in many ways led to much of the post-rock of the late 90’s.
When I first heard it I felt it was the missing link between Nirvana and Godspeed YBE – and whilst that might not ne true it’s clearly influenced a lot of other musicians.
