Pictureplane

On his last record, Pictureplane ripped the idea of teenage counterculture wide open and gave new meaning to being goth. This time around, it's like he's suspended himself in time; songs are rife with ambient sameness, but the tingly, synthesized feeling is one of overwhelming satisfaction. The kicky drum and...

By Bree Davies

July 12, 2011

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On his last record, Pictureplane ripped the idea of teenage counterculture wide open and gave new meaning to being goth. This time around, it's like he's suspended himself in time; songs are rife with ambient sameness, but the tingly, synthesized feeling is one of overwhelming satisfaction. The kicky drum and bassiness of opener "Body Mod" sets the tone for Thee Physical, and it's all about finding the perfect beat for exploring the human form as a genderless pleasure center. "Trancegender" is the star of the record, a downtempo wander through the core of an androgynous sexual revolution, brought to life by the anthemic, lower-octave vocals of Zola Jesus. The fluidity in sound makes some songs — like "Black Nails" and "Touching Transform" — indiscernible from their counterparts, but it all feels too good to matter. This record wasn't meant for the party, but rather the sleep-deprived, mascara-smeared rooftop makeout after the after-party, just before the sun comes up.

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Bree Davies is a multimedia journalist, artist advocate and community organizer born and raised in Denver. Rooted in the world of Do-It-Yourself arts and music, Davies co-founded Titwrench experimental music festival, is host of the local music and comedy show Sounds on 29th on CPT12 Colorado Public Television and is creator and host of the civic and social issue-focused podcast, Hello? Denver? Are You Still There? Her work is centered on a passionate advocacy for all ages, accessible, inclusive, non-commercial and autonomous DIY art spaces and music venues in Denver.

Contact: Bree Davies

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Twitter: @cocodavies