Tongue Depressor (New Haven, CT) is the duo of Zach Rowden and
Henry Birdsey. They write, improvise, and perform drone-based music
with fiddles, pedal steel, lap steel, contrabass, organ, and bells, usually
involving microtonal tunings and re-arranged/re-tuned fragments of
American church music.
“In another time, Tongue Depressor’s ethereal tunings set into motion an
unstable peace. With their bows, the duo conjured spirits to settle
serpents. In another time, it was enough. “In the Quarter Column”
showcases Tongue Depressor’s progression into an exploratory and
singular craft, balancing technical ability with discipline, and magnetism
with precision.
“Everyone Was There” features Tongue Depressor’s first use of magnetic
tape loops, with Rowden manipulating recordings of Birdsey’s playing
while Birdsey bows his lap steel in accompaniment. The hypnotic piece
delicately reminds us that what has come before will come again, bringing
decay and dislocation. Warbly echoes of what is past are present. The
duo’s preferred territory exists outside of time.
On the B side, “A Singing,” Birdsey’s resolute playing of a microtonal
organ merges with the moans and sighs of Rowden’s bass to illustrate a
fresh lucidity that is patient and attentive. Demystification has
disconnected the doors.
Grasping sound and experience from within, “In the Quarter Column”
builds an apparitional world for the listener to inhabit. Once again, Tongue
Depressor offers anyone with the ability and will to listen a very generous
gift.” - Jason Filer (Crazy Doberman, Doberman, Gateway)
This is an edition of 312 records pressed at Burlington Record Plant on
Black Smog vinyl (appears black until held up to the light).