Diamanda Galás - Plague Mass (Album Review)

One of the most unique voices in experimental music, Galás is a cult legend. This album is absolutely her finest work.

Experimental || April 1, 1991

The concept behind "Plague Mass" is anti-religious in nature, specifically targeting Christian religions' contempt and disregard for those affected by the AIDS virus. Her own brother died of AIDS four years before the recording of this album, and the pain Galás has suffered is clearly evidenced in the tortured sound of her singing.

The sounds on this album alternate between spoken-word segments and high, ululating, torturous wails, backed by slow, thudding drumbeats and occasional ambient atmosphere. "Disconcerting" doesn't even begin to describe it. "Terrifying", "surreal" and "disturbing" might come a little closer.

"This Is the Law of the Plague" begins with 30 seconds of sparse drum beats. And then, Diamanda's vocals begin. Her voice is like a hot knife slicing through butter. "When any man hath an issue out of his flesh, / Because of his issue he is unclean / Every bed whereon he lieth is unclean / And everything whereon he sitteth, unclean." A quote from Leviticus, used as part of a condemnation of churches' stance on those with the disease. Galás seems to play different characters throughout "Plague Mass", sometimes a priest, sometimes an AIDS sufferer, sometimes herself. Queer bits like this are found scattered throughout the album, and serve to heighten the atmosphere of disquiet that permeates it.

The closing track, "Let My People Go", evidences how Galás' narrative is flexible. "Oh Lord Jesus / Do you think I served my time? / The eight legs of the devil now / Are crawling up my spine / I go to sleep each evening now / Dreaming of the grave / I see the friends I used to know / Crawling up my leg." This serves as an accusation against God for his part in sending a plague to prey upon those she loves. It's not clear, here or anywhere, whether she actually believes in God or is in any way religious. Regardless, her lyrics and vocals here are powerful. On this particular track, her vocal style is almost Blues-ish, with a distinct southern drawl twisting lips and lamenting her loss.

This is an awkward situation I find myself in; should I recommend this? Like, to anyone? Although I was moved by Galás' message and narratives, transfixed and even fascinated by the musical content, I can't see myself returning to this anytime soon. It's a brutal experience, and I suppose I can recommend it to anyone looking for a good solid kick to the stomach.

Still, this was an unforgettable musical experience.

Rating: 8.5/10

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