The marketing sticker shouts 'UNINTELLIGIBLE!', and it's hard to disagree. Originally released in 1986 on Rough Trade Records, 'World Of Echo' still sounds timeless today. Arthur Russell's deconstructed cello 'songs' are like lullabies from the ether. It's his most authentic personal statement and the only LP he was satisfied with in his lifetime. Gone are the mutant disco sounds of Dinosaur L, Indian Ocean, and Loose Joints, as well as the folk - rock/power - pop of The Necessaries. What remains is Russell's croaking tenor (sometimes compared to a green muppet in our office), his cello, and touches of echo, distortion, and reverb. It's an intimate record that might fade into the background on first listen, but its cello sounds, rhythms, and his close - up voice will draw you in. Russell plays with his voice and piles echo on his cello. You can even hear studio chatter on some cuts. Some song titles like 'Wax The Van' and 'Let's Go Swimming' are from his disco projects, but the versions here are distorted cousins of the dance - floor ones. These songs seem like raw sketches but have endless layers. It's a double - vinyl pressing from the Audika label in 2014. Highly recommended.
To enjoy this double - vinyl album, first, make sure your turntable is clean and in good working condition. Gently place the vinyl on the turntable, lower the needle carefully, and let the music play. Sit back and relax, and try to focus on the unique sounds and rhythms, as the album might seem unassuming at first but has hidden depths. When you're done listening, lift the needle gently and cover the vinyl to protect it from dust. Store the vinyl in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid touching the playing surface of the vinyl with your fingers to prevent scratches and dirt. If the vinyl gets dirty, you can use a vinyl cleaning brush to gently remove dust and debris.
