
Editors
The Blanck Mass Sessions
Play It Again Sam
May 07, 2019 Editors
Originally released as a limited edition vinyl LP for Record Store Day 2019, The Blanck Mass Sessions is a re-work of seven songs from Editors’ 2018 album Violence, and one bonus track, by electronic music producer Benjamin John Power (aka Blanck Mass) that is now seeing a general release in all formats. Power was involved in the original recording sessions for Violence, before the band brought in producer Leo Abrahams to finish the album.
Why re-work of something that is already as unique and alluring as Editors’ cinematic indie rock is somewhat of a mystery to begin with, and after listening to The Blanck Mass Sessions it proves to be a totally unnecessary exercise.
Adding clattering drums, heavy bass, and electronic textures does nothing to enhance the stylistic synth melodies and angular guitar riffs, and actually undermines the enjoyment of the songs. The appeal of Editors’ music lies in the depth and breadth of the compositions and yet Power fills every space with sound, creating a dense and cluttered mix that smothers the beauty of the originals.
It seems “Violence” and “Hallelujah (So Low)” lend themselves best to this electrified mockup and are rather unique and different versions that can stand alone on their own merits, but the jumbled mess that is “Darkness at the Door” will have you reaching for the skip button.
The scruffy and electronically enhanced re-works heard on The Blanck Mass Sessions play like a one-off adventure and are a risk-taking excursion that challenge the ears too much to make revisiting them worthwhile. Stick to the originals on Violence for a pleasurable indie rock experience. (www.editorsofficial.com)
Author rating: 3.5/10
Average reader rating: 4/10
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