Album Review: Silence The Decent by Existence And Uniqueness Of Solutions
Released in 1995 under Switch Records Canada, Silence The Decent by Existence And Uniqueness Of Solutions remains a curious artifact of electronic music’s experimental era. A genre-defying blend of abstract, techno, acid, and electro styles, this album is the brainchild of Brendan M. Gillen and Himadri—two artists who clearly weren’t afraid to push boundaries. Hailing from Canada, their work feels both deeply cerebral and playfully chaotic, like a sonic puzzle you can’t stop trying to solve.
The title track, “Silence The Decent,” grabs your attention immediately. It opens with an eerie atmosphere that builds into pulsating beats layered over squelchy acid lines. You don’t just hear it—you feel it. This isn’t background music; it demands your full presence. What sticks out most is how Gillen and Himadri manage to balance chaos with structure. The track evolves unpredictably but never loses its groove, leaving listeners caught between dancing and introspection. If anything, it's hard not to remember because it feels like stepping into another dimension—one where logic bends but never breaks.
Another standout is “Nerve Nexus.” This one hits differently, leaning heavier into techno territory while sprinkling in abstract flourishes. Its relentless rhythm section could easily fuel a late-night warehouse rave, but there’s also this strange, almost mechanical quality to the melodies that keeps things unsettlingly fresh. Halfway through, the track throws you a curveball—a glitchy breakdown that feels like circuitry malfunctioning in real-time. It’s weird, sure, but oddly satisfying. Tracks like these remind you why electronic music was (and still is) such fertile ground for innovation.
It’s worth noting the production values here are raw yet meticulous. These guys weren’t chasing polish—they were chasing authenticity. That approach pays off, giving Silence The Decent a timeless edge despite being nearly three decades old. Sure, some parts might sound dated compared to today’s hyper-produced standards, but honestly? That rough-around-the-edges vibe only adds charm.
Looking back on this record now, it strikes me as more than just an album—it’s a snapshot of two minds tinkering endlessly with sound. In a world obsessed with perfection, Silence The Decent dares to embrace imperfection. And maybe that’s why it lingers long after the last note fades. Or maybe I’m just biased ‘cause I love stuff that doesn’t try too hard. Either way, give it a spin if you’re up for something that challenges as much as it entertains.
Oh, and fun fact: whoever decided to slap "Untitled (Locked Groove)" onto the tracklist deserves a medal. Sometimes the simplest ideas are the best ones.
