The Theory of Abstract Light
Label: Odd Halo Recordings
Media: CD
Format: Album
WorkNameSort: The Theory of Abstract Light
Ben Carr is the guitar half of 5ive, a duo known as purveyors of dense, atmospheric stoner rock. That duo has made somewhat of a name for itself with thick, dynamic instrumental music. So, it’s not too surprising that Carr’s side project, Theory of Abstract Light, is milling about in similar areas. Where 5ive goes for a more grindingly heavy effect in its work, these solo pieces by Carr are far more esoteric. Largely built upon Carr’s treated guitar work and decorated with thin layers of effects, these seven tracks are hypnotically sparse in their construction. Following no traditional structure, this music is resolutely minimal and sounds largely improvised. And though a track like “Self Loathing (Realizing)” is built upon a somewhat memorable drone, it’s something like the jarring spaciousness of “The Hemophiliac Dream (A Message Into)” or the dark echoes of “Is the Dream …” that truly define this EP.
This article appears in Jan 22-28, 2003.