Sunn O)) Cover Song - My Wall Performed by Brice Frillici

Frillici's engagement with "My Wall" is less a simple cover than a profound dialogue with its creators. He absorbs the original's dense mythological layering, reflecting on themes of power, boundaries, and transformation through his distinct lens. The song, steeped in the visceral imagery of mythic battles and divine reckonings, mirrors Frillici's own internal and external conflicts—his struggles with a Bay Area that morphed over two decades into a landscape he no longer recognizes or cherishes. 

"And then I was King Vikar with his broken neck / And then I was the villain and the victim and the priest," 

Julian Cope's lyrics illustrate a multiplicity of identities, each carrying the weight of historical inevitability and personal agency.

Akin to Vikar, bound by fate, his destiny is marked by the very place he once loved.

The wall is both a boundary and a prison, a symbol of the barriers he faces and the divisions within himself. As the song reverberates with the heavy strumming of a "gloom axe," so too does Frillici's life oscillate between resonance and dissonance, a symphony of triumphs and defeats:

"Look to the farthest far horizon. Don't blame the messenger. Don't blame the messenger."

These lines speak to the inevitability of fate and the acceptance of one's role in the unfolding of events, a theme that parallels Frillici's acceptance of his past and the consequences of his choices.

Stephen O'Malley, co-founder of the avant-garde drone metal band Sunn O))), is celebrated for his unique approach to guitar playing, dubbing his instrument the "gloom axe." Characterized by its deep, droning sounds that create a hypnotic, enveloping sonic experience, O'Malley's playing emphasizes sustained tones and overtones that interact profoundly with the listening space. His technique focuses not on speed or complexity but on crafting a massive, immersive wall of sound marked by significant pauses and silences that add complexity to the music. Utilizing a meticulously curated setup of amplifiers and effects pedals, O'Malley achieves a sound that is both overwhelmingly powerful and introspective. This "gloom axe" transcends traditional musical boundaries, challenging conventional perceptions and emphasizing music as a physical, transformative experience. Through his performances, O'Malley has not only defined Sunn O))) 's sound but has also profoundly influenced the drone and doom metal genres, cementing his legacy as a pioneer in expanding the possibilities of music.

A heartfelt thank you to all the incredible talents behind Sunn O))) 's album "White1," which features the evocative track "My Wall." Special appreciation goes to Stephen O'Malley and Greg Anderson for their visionary leadership and musical prowess. We extend profound gratitude to Julian Cope for his distinctive spoken word contribution that profoundly enriches the song. Immense thanks also to Randall Dunn, whose expertise in production has significantly shaped the atmospheric and immersive sound of the album. Each of you has played a pivotal role in crafting this unique auditory experience, leaving a lasting imprint on the landscape of experimental music. Your contributions are deeply valued and have been crucial in bringing this groundbreaking project to fruition.