Noise of the Night

Bendik Giske, a Norwegian LGBTQ artist and saxophonist, has given us a ticket into the outlandish scene of Berlin’s techno center with his new record, Surrender. Recorded in Oslo, Surrender is a riveting soundscape made by circular breathing techniques and a closely mic’d up saxophone. Giske meticulously explores the line between what is noise and what is music and brings an unexpected appreciation for the unsettling vulnerabilities that come with being alive and free.

The record investigates its own physicality through playing with its texture and volume. Sometimes, this can even lead to some pretty jarring sounds. “Ass Dance” comes in with a warping club-like bass and crusty, fuzzy saxophone drone noises. As they rise in loudness, Giske intentionally highlights the perceptional difference between unison and commotion. This is a distinctive foundation for this album.

“Adjust” is an exceptional track. Electronic dance inspired percussion flows like water against the clashing arpeggiated saxophone and carefree vocals. The song is trippy, cool and groovy, debuting freeform jazz themes and influences from legendary saxophonist Evan Parker. “Up” begins in a flowery and colorful way as it slowly rides up the melodic scale. Gurgling basses and erupting saxophone solos help reinforce Giske’s theatrical skills in navigating the song like a story, surrendering to the intoxication of his hypnotic music.

The record then changes direction and goes moodier and emptier with tracks “Stall” and “Hole.” Both are interesting listens, but the pacing may feel a bit underwhelming when compared to its predecessors. “Through” and “High” both return to wild sax riffs and fast tempo house beats, thus continuing the album’s ongoing sonic theme of club music. Giske thoughtfully mixes in harmonious vocals until they become part of the craziness as well.

An extremely beautiful outro to the record “Exit” can be reminiscent of Arthur Russell’s World of Echo in its echoed saxes and background noises. Breathy, reverbed vocals sing along in remembrance of the night that was. A very rewarding climax, this track celebrates the record’s main sounds, providing a vivacious aftertaste to the party scene we just indulged in.

Surrender pushes the boundaries of club music to its most extreme version of itself. Giske naturally manipulates his saxophone into artificial jumping patterns and textures to bring an ensemble of noises together for an ephemeral night.