Hot Salvation

Daniel Lea of CURA MACHINES, Heliochrysum, and L A N D teams up with Guy Brewer, known for SHIFTED & Carrier, to form New Corroded for their debut collaborative LP, "Pass Lightly." Released via Lea's Vast Habitat imprint, this record was crafted remotely, showcasing an abstract, almost architectural approach to sound collage. It blends system, balance, and precise engineering with elements of chaos and chance, resulting in a cohesive and intricate LP that reimagines sound as a versatile force – a medium for physicality as well as auditory pleasure.

"Pass Lightly" begins with "Terminal," a dense and cinematic piece centred around a gently modulated arp sequence. Percussive sound design motifs provide structure, while waves of ambient textures and rising synths weave a narrative. "Chromosphere" maintains the LP's complexity with up tempo beats intertwined with feedback loops and rich synth work, creating a dynamic sonic landscape.

The monolithic "Carved Out" follows, featuring immense proto-Gregorian pads that transition into a caustic drone, punctuated by moments of silence. "Tap Out" brings the intensity down a notch, with rolling drums and bursts of noise creating a compelling interplay. "Tears Like Water" introduces emotive pads and half-time drum programming, gradually building layers of textures and a shifting bassline.

"Gushing" revisits the modulating arp line from the LP's opener, showcasing the artists' exploration of destructive sonics amidst delicate harmonies. "No Ceremony" follows with organic drum programming and powerful sonic motifs, creating a frenetic energy. The LP concludes with "Rusted Shore," offering a hopeful yet distorted orchestral sound, symbolizing rebirth after the intensity of the preceding tracks.

"Pass Lightly" is a conversation between Lea and Brewer, both in terms of composition and their transatlantic collaboration process. "Rusted Shore" serves as a fitting closing statement, conveying a sense of renewal amidst chaos, much like vegetation pushing through cracks in concrete.