Israël Quellet, Oppressum (CD)

Israël Quellet remains a bit of a mystery. There's a short biography on the Internet that doesn't really explain how he ends up creating such innovative and distinctive albums. 2007's Oppressum reminds me a bit of Italy's Starfuckers/Sinistri, or maybe a Bruce Gilbert solo album. Most tracks are built on rhythmic loop, often made from harsh percussion. The results can be a bit abrasive, but never particularly "rocking"—the energy and aggression are not used to achieve emotional impact, but at the same time the results never feel detached or aloof. Quellet uses vocals both to interact with the underlying rhythms and to violate them. Oppressum is an unusual and remarkable record that's engaging intellectually while remaining approachable in every way.