Leave Quietly: 1997-1999

Description

The complete discography from the seminal Milwaukee band Akarso, on vinyl for the very first time. All songs recorded and mixed by Pat Lilley at Nexus Recording Studio in Waukesha Wisconsin between 1998-1999. Songs 1,2, and 4 originally appeared on Parallel Chlorophyll Regions (Highwater Records 005) 1998. Song 3 originally appeared on Akarso/Seven Days of Samsara Split 7" (Ricky Schroeder Fan Club 001) 2000. Songs 5-8 originally appeared on Akarso/Faraquet Split CD (404 Records 002) 1999.

Milwaukee's underground scene of the late 1990s harbored many hidden gems, and Akarso is certainly one of its finest. Blending elements of post-hardcore, math rock, screamo, and noise rock, the trio quickly made a name for themselves during their short yet intense existence. Their chaotic and intricate sound earned them a loyal following within math and post-hardcore circles, and they toured extensively, leaving behind a legacy that would influence the Midwest's underground music scene for years to come. With Leave Quietly: 1997-1999, Akarso's complete recorded catalog has been unearthed, giving listeners a chance to experience the raw energy and innovative sound of a band that was well ahead of its time. Released through Expert Work Records, this LP collects Akarso's recorded output from their brief but impactful run. Featuring Nathan Lilley on vocals and guitar (who would later gain notoriety with Call Me Lightning), Joe Wong on drums (now a prolific composer for TV and film and host of The Trap Set), and Greg Roteik on bass (of Key of Evil fame), the trio's musical chemistry is undeniable. Their dynamic interplay and knack for combining dissonance with technical precision is immediately apparent, and this collection serves as both a time capsule and sheer example of their musical skills.

The songs feel unpolished in the best possible way, full of jagged guitar riffs, off-kilter rhythms, and aggressive vocals. It's easy to hear why Akarso garnered attention during their brief career: their music demanded attention. Tracks from the collection highlight their ability to balance complex structures with visceral energy, reflecting their post-hardcore roots while pushing into more experimental territory. At the heart of Akarso's sound is their seamless blending of math rock's technical precision with the ferocity of post-hardcore and noise rock. The intricate guitar work of Nathan Lilley, coupled with the driving rhythms of Joe Wong and the powerful basslines of Greg Roteik, creates a tense and unpredictable musical experience. Time signatures shift without warning, dissonant riffs collide with frenetic drumming, and Lilley's vocals pierce through the chaos with a cathartic and desperate intensity.

It's a challenging, chaotic, and emotionally charged album that captures the intensity of Akarso's live performances and the raw energy of their songwriting. More than two decades later, Akarso's music remains as vital and relevant as ever, and this collection ensures that their legacy will continue to inspire future generations of musicians.

FFO/RIYL: Math Rock, Tintoretto, The Dazzling Killmen, Call Me Lightning, Faraquet, Drive Like Jehu, etc.