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Lightning Bolt’s 3rd LP (and my introduction to their work) is a volcanic exhibition of some of the most thrilling and satisfying musical material I can remember hearing. Constantly intense and always hammering towards further heights, the record manages to stay fresh across its runtime due to the fluidity and vitality of the 2 members’ live playing, and due to the quality and catchiness of the ideas that they travel between. “Dead Cowboy” may be my favorite track on the record, and features one of the most creative and intense jams over a 4-chord loop that I’ve ever heard (starting around 3:07). “Infinity Farm” is the only tranquil track on the record, and the way the preceding track transitions into it is stunningly beautiful. The rug-pull ending somehow fits perfectly as well.

While this record is certainly chaotic at many points, I can sense a shade of serenity underlying the storm: I’d relate it to the sort of peaceful and optimistic mindset that you’re left in after exercising well. To me, this album expresses the simple and vibrant joy of the art of making sound together, which I think is why (maybe paradoxically to some people) it always brightens my mood when I listen to it. Highly recommended!