Music / Reviews
Review: Nihiloxica, Strange Brew
“If you are a first world country looking to outsource your visa and immigration services, press One…”
The life of touring musicians is increasingly dystopian. While the above quote sounds like something from an episode of Black Mirror, it’s actually one of the automated phone line recordings that pepper Nihiloxica’s stunning new album Source of Denial.
“Have you ever been suspected of crimes against humanity? Have you ever been involved in, supported or encouraged terrorism?”
is needed now More than ever
With members based in Uganda and the UK, Nihiloxica have found themselves at the sharp end of a deliberately cruel and confusing visa system. A 2022 tour was abandoned completely and certain shows have been performed with only three members on stage. Thanks to the leftfield music gods at Simple Things five of them are in Bristol this evening and they’re well worth the wait.
Following a warm-up set of cutting edge bass music from DJ Nate Ka$h, Nihiloxica’s blend of polyrhythms and warped electronics is irresistible from the off. The rhythm and sound ramp up throughout the band’s set towards a sensory overload that leaves the crowd reeling. It’s music that speaks of anger and frustration, but also cross-cultural celebration.
At the front of the stage are members of Nolotika Cultural Ensemble, a drumming collective based in Kampala who draw on centuries of tradition. Spyda (stage left) doubles up as MC, yelling rave-isms down his bottom-of-the-well, dub-delayed mic. The percussionists’ hypnotic, interlocking beats are augmented by the two British members of the group. Spooky J’s dextrous work on the drumkit draws on jazz and techno, while synth player pq summons fearsome basslines and alien textures, providing the music with its unnerving, futuristic edge.
The set leans heavily on Source of Denial, the group’s second album and strongest work to date. Highlights include the relentless bass / drum assault of Baganga, the almost-metal of the title track, and Asidi’s percussive crescendos and heart stopping synth stabs. Nihiloxica’s music makes thrilling use of technology while hinting at the horror of using it to control people. It’s also a perfect example of the power of cultural cross-pollination. In music as in life, borders are the enemy of progress.
Photograph courtesy of Simple Things
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