Selva is the sophomore album from Uruguay’s arch tripsters, Las Cobras. More ethereal and even less direct than its predecessor, Temporal, it is a disc of dark and dreamlike psychedelia that brings to mind the possibilities of the Jesus and Mary Chain, at their most woozy but by no means passive, collaborating with Mazzy Star. Fuzzy bass, somewhat less than sunny electronics and otherworldly vocals duetting over a spaced-out drum machine don’t so much propel Las Cobras’ songs but guide them through a sinister and unsettling atmosphere that is distinctly shaded by the dark.
“You wanna go for a ride?” intone Leandro Rebellato and Sofia Aguerre’s intertwined vocals on the hypnotic lead single, “Evil in Your Eyes”. Given that it’s delivered over a brooding, echo-drenched melody that is suitably intimidating, it’s a question that might require some thought before committing to an answer. “Misterio” comes on like Spaghetti Western goth, with its wailing guitar and an unsettling groove that suggest big spaces but a need for some caution. The title track’s distant, half-heard vocals and downtempo voodoo beat are similarly and distinctly disorientating: although Selva might lack speed, it is by no means tranquil.
Like many of their Fuzz Club label-mates, Las Cobras prefer to mine their psychedelia from a far broader seam than the usual Anglo-American influences. Indeed, by adding hints of Tropicalia and afrobeat to their exotic stew, Las Cobras take their trip to interesting places that are rarely touched by our Paisley pattern-loving brothers and sisters. It is a sound that is seductive and unsettling and not one that assaults listeners with a pounding beat and chest-beating riffs. Selva is also a fine soundtrack to accompany any recovery that might be required from any New Year excess for those with an aversion to more saccharine tunes.
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