In what initially seems like an unusual move, Margins’ LP of last year, Divide, has been re-released. It would appear the record flew under most people’s radars so much as to warrant another shove, but this time from a more global platform.
Last year the record came out on Melbourne’s Casadeldisco Records. This year it’s being released through young UK label Battle Worldwide Recordings.
For those who did miss Divide previously, this is a perfect opportunity to delve into the post-rock magic of Margins. The instrumental four-piece have delivered another creative album of driving, repetitive guitars and melodic twists and turns, yet they have also explored new musical mediums.
The use of acoustic guitar in “Static Cleaner” lends the track unexpected world music/folk characteristics, as does the haunting vocals on “Rabbit Head”- an unprecedented addition to a Margins composition.
Despite this, there are no lyrics and the voice, which belongs to Teeth and Tongue’s Jess Cornelius, is successfully rendered as another instrument. Then there’s also the symphonic amble of “Cousteau”, reminiscent of Explosions In The Sky.
Divide is fairly unique in its process, as it was recorded live. Any mistake, background noise or improvisation has been captured and unedited and it’s nice to know you’re hearing Margins in the raw. They are simply a group of very skilled musicians and this release will lull you into their lo-fi, languid dreamscape.
