Having previously admired Robert Toher’s work in the dark synth-percussive band ERAAS, we kind of knew what to expect from his new project Public Memory, whose album “Wuthering Drum” will be released March 18 on Felte Records with significant tour dates surrounding its arrival. Recently released single “Zig Zag” presents an ominous buzzing undercurrent with fluidly pulsing percussion that, although mechanical and electronic, gives off the sense of some kind of cosmic tribal ritual. Vocals further enhance this mysterious sensibility, with alien processing and frequent tandem synth lines. Its overall feel is hypnotic, possibly cabalistic, leading to an ultimate unsettling vibe, a perfect soundtrack to a film sequence where the protagonist puts on a fright mask, douses his victim with psilocybin and proceeds to blow their mind. Initial lead single, "Lunar," and the follow-up, "Ringleader" (streaming) can also be streamed prior to the full-length release. Public Memory will debut their live show this Saturday 3/12 at Alphaville, with the like-minded Tempers, and play. Immediately following they head down to Austin for SXSW on Tuesday, March 15 at Barracuda. – Dave Cromwell
