White Noise : An Electric Storm : Vinyl Reissue : Review…Bonkers or Genius?

Rediscovering the White Noise’s “An Electric Storm”

I delve into the eerie and avant-garde world of White Noise’s seminal album, “An Electric Storm.” Released in 1969, this album represents a cornerstone in the evolution of electronic music, and it still manages to bewilder and fascinate listeners today.

Before this review, my only exposure to White Noise was the track “Black Mass: An Electric Storm in Hell,” which I encountered on a three-CD set called “Strangely Strange But Oddly Normal.” This track alone is a testament to the album’s strangeness, filled with dissonant sounds and to be honest scary atmospheres.

“An Electric Storm” stands out in the Island Records catalog, a label known for its eclectic and progressive rock releases. Chris Blackwell’s willingness to explore the unconventional brought forth this unique creation, which can be likened to the experimental boldness of Spooky Tooth’s “Ceremony.”

Delia Derbyshire: The Mastermind Behind the Madness

At the heart of White Noise was Delia Derbyshire, a pioneering figure in electronic music. Derbyshire worked at the BBC Radiophonic Workshop, where she became famous for her groundbreaking electronic compositions, including the iconic Doctor Who theme. Her work on “An Electric Storm” pushed the boundaries of what music could be, combining traditional instrumentation with innovative electronic techniques long before the advent of modern synthesizers.

Derbyshire’s contribution to this album cannot be overstated. She meticulously crafted sounds that had never been heard before, creating an otherworldly soundscape that was both thrilling and unsettling. As noted on the album, “Many sounds have never been heard by humans,” a testament to Derbyshire’s innovative spirit.

A Polarising Masterpiece

Critics and listeners have always had mixed feelings about “An Electric Storm.” At the time of its release, it was too unconventional for mainstream audiences, but it has since gained a cult following. Musician Julian Cope, known for his eclectic taste, praised the album, particularly the track “The Black Mass: An Electric Storm in Hell,” for its emotional intensity and innovative use of electronic soundscapes.

Side one of the album features tracks like “Love Without Sound” and “My Game of Loving,” which blend haunting melodies with bizarre electronic effects. “My Game of Loving” is particularly notorious for its mid-track shift into what has been described as an “electronic orgy,” complete with real sounds of human intimacy layered over the music.

Side two, however, takes a darker turn. Tracks like “The Visitation” and “Black Mass: An Electric Storm in Hell” delve into themes of horror and despair. “The Visitation” tells the story of a car crash with chilling sound effects, while “Black Mass” culminates in a cacophony of screams and sobs, evoking a sense of impending doom.

Legacy and Modern Perception

“An Electric Storm” remains a landmark in the history of electronic music. It’s a challenging listen, but its influence is undeniable. Modern listeners often approach the album with a sense of reverence for its pioneering spirit. The reissue of the album on 180g vinyl has introduced it to a new generation of audiophiles, preserving its legacy.

Listening to this album is not a passive experience; it demands your full attention and evokes a wide range of emotions. As I concluded my listening session, I found myself pondering the thin line between genius and madness. Is it a masterpiece or an unlistenable experiment? The truth likely lies somewhere in between, but one thing is certain: “An Electric Storm” is unlike anything else in the annals of music history.

If you’ve experienced this album, I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Did it leave you spellbound, or was it simply too bizarre? Share your experiences in the comments below. For those brave enough to explore,

White Noise’s “An Electric Storm” is available now on vinyl. Dive in and prepare for an auditory journey like no other.

Order your copy here

Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

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