(August 2010) Many are familiar with the struggle going on in Darfur and STREFF’s album, Darfur helps
to show the dire situation to its listeners.
Political statements have been a part of music for
many years from Bob Dylan to Rage Against the Machine and they are not leaving artistic work
anytime soon. The album is available for free and if you feel compelled to make a donation to
Darfur, there are many links on their website to do so. Reading through STREFF’s website,
their concern is genuine and it’s not just a publicity stunt. The way they have channeled their
ideas into music is not groundbreaking by any means but their dubcore style is a nice change
from other, more popular, genres.
The essence of quality songs are there but something seems to be lacking in general. Starting off interestingly enough and then quickly crumbling, the sound structure’s are repetitious when played back-to-back. With only four original STREFF songs, there’s not a lot of musical substance to grab your attention and the remainder of the album consists of remixes and one skit-like track. With so few pieces, the mission to keep the listener’s interest becomes even more evident. The first two songs are great and show off well done experimental dubcore. “My Soldier Friend” is mechanical, gritty, and rhythmic; the song slowly lulls you into a trance and the pleading lyrical voice sets the tone for the rest of the album. “Cleansing” unleashes hell with a burning bass and screaming synths. Political agenda finds itself on the
third track with “Desert Story,” a vocal track with a man talking about soldiers in Darfur. He echoes in and out of comprehension and it’s very hard to understand what is being said (perhaps intentionally?).
The next three tracks tend to veer into familiar territory and this is where STREFF’s repetition of sound becomes apparent. They have a perfected musical formula, however, they rarely venture into new sonic directions. Vi11ian’s remix of “Are We Deaf” is exceptional with its change in sound structure throughout. This is a drum and bass track with a quick and clear bassline that stay’s very focused –clearer vocals help to convey political meaning. The final track is another remix but this time reconstructed by StarBurnX. The minimalistic sound wash along with ghostly plucks from stringed instruments is hauntingly beautiful and guaranteed to send chills down your spine.
The music on Darfur is admirable and a solid effort for an album (political agenda or not). The best way to fully digest this release is to keep the situation in Darfur in the background and let the music redefine your subconscious. While at times Darfur slumps at certain times, it picks up just as quickly for a fiery finish. If you like the album and the direction STREFF has taken, by all means donate to the cause, you will not be disappointed.
Darfur is out now and available as a free digital download.
