Known for his outstanding artworks full of decay and darkness, the paintings by Polish artist Zdzisław Beksiński are a perfect fit for gloomy metal/hardcore works that often approach to the study of disturbing underside of our consciousness. “Seven Sorrows”, the newest apocalyptic and dystopian track from four part, two-LP (Victoria/Jeiunium) quadrilogy by Canadian metallic hardcore band ANCRESS (members of A389 Recordings’ VILIPEND, TITAN, HOMOLKA, EYESWITHOUTAFACE) is based upon the works of the extraordinary painter and it is my pleasure to present you exclusively on IDIOTEQ. Slated for a November 18th vinyl release on Hypaethral Records and offered as a limited download art/lyric booklets and tapes with download codes from No List Records, the album includes an amazing art by Alex CF of the FALL OF EFRAFA and LIGHBEARER fame and is a one hell of a treat for fans of dark hardcore, atmospheric extreme metal and adventurous sonic experience with a second bottom. Dive into “Seven Sorrows” below and get fascinated by both the band’s and Beksiński’s artwork instantly!
Like all the tracks on Ancress’s four-part, two-LP series, “Seven Sorrows” is based lyrically and thematically upon a painting by Zdzisław Beksiński. Beksiński refused to title or discuss any of his art, leaving his oeuvre completely open to interpretation. For “Seven Sorrows,” Ancress name-check an influential aggressive group — Creation is Crucifixion — quote the Who and paraphrase Boys Night Out, lyrically, all while addressing, and rejecting, the “Substitutionary Atonement”/”Our Lady of Sorrows” religious myths. Ideally, it’s open enough for people to form their own interpretations as well. The closing effort for the first half of the Victoria/Jeiunium LP, musically it’s one of Ancress’s most frenetic and eclectic, but paradoxically catchy efforts, featuring an electronic noise intro, frantic grind, big, almost anthemic rock riffs, with a scream-along chorus, and even a choral outro underpinned by blast beats. Are your sins your own?
Lyrics:
They say, “creation is crucifixtion”From up here, she can see“For miles and miles and…”There is not a thingWorth saving or believing inDon’t pray for me (pray for me)Don’t bleed for me (bleed for me)Don’t die for me (die for me)My sins are my ownMy sins are my ownMy sins are my ownMy sins…Seven sorrows of MaryMy sins, my sinsRavens circle awaiting the feastMy sinsShe’ll never soar again, her wings can’t bear the weight — weight!
Speaking about the release, vocalist Chris Gramlich explained, “[guitarist] Brandon [McColl, from Canadian lords of heavy Titan] and I are very into conceptual art/ideas and hidden meanings. I’m a great admirer of Beksiński’s artwork and we decided it would be interesting and challenging to base each song upon an individual painting of his. Originally, the idea was four one-sided vinyl EPs based upon his work, each representing one of the horsemen of the apocalypse mythos as well. However, with the Canadian dollar where it’s at, it became two LPs, of which Victoria/Jeiunium (which translates as conquest/famine) is the first sermon.
Lyrically, I distanced myself and my personal experiences as much as possible, writing only what was inspired by each painting and the music. That said, if I did my job correctly, listeners won’t know it’s a ‘concept’ record and will be able to relate/enjoy it without viewing the paintings or knowing the origins. However, they will find greater depth if they dig a little.”
While musically and lyrically inspired by the work of Beksiński, all original artwork for this project was conceived and created by esteemed UK artist Alex CF (Fall of Efrafa, Light Bearer, Archivist). In addition to the impressive vinyl art, the two LPs will each contain a poster/insert that interconnect when assembled — the first two covers/pieces appear below.
Zdzisław Beksiński (1929–2005) was a Polish painter, photographer and sculptor, specializing in the field of dystopian surrealism. Beksiński did his paintings and drawings in what he called either a ‘Baroque’ or a ‘Gothic’ manner. His creations were made mainly in two periods. The first period of work is generally considered to contain expressionistic color, with a strong style of “utopian realism” and surreal architecture, like a doomsday scenario. The second period contained more abstract style, with the main features of formalism.
Beksiński was stabbed to death at his Warsaw apartment in February 2005 by a 19-year-old acquaintance from Wołomin, reportedly because he refused to lend the teenager any money and threatened him further. / Wikipedia
Browse through some of Beksinski’s art works below.
