USA/Mexico, the Austin-based trio featuring Craig Clouse of Shit and Shine, Nate Cross of Marriage, Expensive Shit, and King Coffey of the legendary Butthole Surfers, have unleashed their most compelling work to date with their third album, ‘Del Rio’. This release marks a significant evolution for the band, venturing further into experimental territories while retaining the raw, visceral energy that defined their previous albums, ‘Laredo’ and ‘Matamoros’. ‘Del Rio’ is not just an album; it’s an auditory journey that challenges listeners and rewards them with a sonic landscape as expansive and intriguing as its namesake region.
Delving into the Sound of ‘Del Rio’
While USA/Mexico’s earlier works flirted with the fringes of rock, ‘Del Rio’ confidently strides beyond those confines. The album is a testament to the band’s imaginative prowess, weaving together noise rock foundations with avant-garde sensibilities. Colby Brinkman of Taverner joins the ensemble on vocals for the first time, adding a new dimension to their sound. This addition enhances the sonic palette, creating layers of texture that are both abrasive and captivating. Critics have lauded ‘Del Rio’ as a fully realized statement, a culmination of the band’s experimental explorations.
Alt text: USA Mexico Del Rio album cover featuring band name and album title in bold text against a textured background, promoting their experimental noise rock sound.
Critical Acclaim and Listener Reception
The anticipation for ‘Del Rio’ was palpable, fueled by the critical success of ‘Matamoros’ and ‘Laredo’. Reviewers have consistently struggled to categorize USA/Mexico’s sound, often resorting to vivid and evocative language to capture their unique sonic identity. Pitchfork’s Andy O’Connor noted that while ‘Laredo’ was a “bent-out sunstroke of processed vocals and noise-laden riffs,” ‘Matamoros’ was “slower, freakier, and somehow louder,” highlighting the band’s consistent evolution and refusal to be pigeonholed. This defiance is precisely what makes USA/Mexico a vital force in Austin’s vibrant noise rock and experimental music scene.
Marc Masters from Bandcamp described their sound as “monolithic without being monotone: dirty sounds and gritty textures sliding over each other like sandpaper wiped across a chalkboard,” emphasizing the tactile and abrasive nature of their music. JP Moores of The Quietus painted a similarly intense picture, stating, “the amplifiers sound broken, the vocals suggest someone’s got their leg caught in a mantrap while deep in the woods trying to poach fat brown hares, and the mixing desk squeals as if it is undergoing physical torture.” These descriptions, while extreme, effectively convey the intense and unconventional listening experience that USA/Mexico offers.
Alt text: Live performance shot of USA Mexico band members King Coffey on drums, Nate Cross on bass, and Craig Clouse on guitar showcasing their energetic experimental music.
Experience ‘Del Rio’ in Multiple Formats
‘Del Rio’ is available for listeners to experience in various formats to suit their preferences. For audiophiles and collectors, the album is pressed on 140 gr. opaque brown vinyl, offering a tangible and immersive listening experience. The vinyl edition also includes a digital download code, ensuring access to the music in the digital realm. For those who prefer digital formats, ‘Del Rio’ is readily available for streaming and high-quality download via Bandcamp, offered in 24-bit/44.1kHz for optimal audio fidelity.
The album features three tracks: “Chorizo,” “Soft Taco,” and the title track “Del Rio,” each promising a unique sonic adventure. From the gritty intensity of “Chorizo” to the extended explorations of “Soft Taco” clocking in at over 13 minutes, and the deep dive into soundscapes with “Del Rio” at over 16 minutes, the tracklist suggests a dynamic and immersive listening experience.
USA/Mexico Del Rio Vinyl Record
Conclusion: Embark on the ‘Del Rio’ Journey
USA/Mexico’s ‘Del Rio’ is more than just their latest album; it’s an invitation to explore the outer reaches of sound. With its blend of noise rock ferocity and experimental innovation, the album stands as a bold statement from a band that consistently defies expectations. Whether you are a long-time fan or a newcomer intrigued by the sonic descriptions, ‘Del Rio’ promises a rewarding and challenging listening experience. Dive into the world of USA/Mexico and discover the captivating soundscapes of ‘Del Rio’ today. You can find ‘Del Rio’ available for purchase and streaming on Bandcamp and through Riot Season for UK/EU customers.
