kaczoartreviews - Tumblr blog

[kaczoartreviews]

My Soul's Echo Collides with OTYKEN's PHENOMENON

reading time: 4 min.

“Hello, my friend, you are here with us again!”

Amidst the seemingly endless days of lockdown, my quest for new folktronica music led me on an unexpected journey to the remote landscapes of Siberia. In the depths of the internet, I stumbled upon a hidden gem – an indigenous band from Krasnoyarsk Krai, a place not widely known for its musical exports. Little did I know that this encounter would mark the beginning of a captivating sonic exploration. 

Meet OTYKEN, the band whose name had me tongue-tied at first but soon had me tapping my feet to their infectious beats. They're like the ultimate mixologists, blending traditional Siberian vibes with futuristic electronic sounds to create what can only be described as folktronica magic. And get this - they don't just stop at the tunes. Throughout their musical journey, OTYKEN sprinkles in traditional instruments, lyrics in languages you probably haven't even heard of (Khakass, Chulymian, Dolganian, and Russian - yeah, they have long repertoire), making every listen a cultural adventure. But wait, there's more! Let's rewind to the origins of this musical phenomenon. The Museum of Ethnography in Krasnoyarsk, Siberia, where curious visitors, especially those globe-trotting foreigners, couldn't get enough of ethnic tunes. Cue Andrey Medonos, the museum's director, a true Siberian native with roots as deep as the Taiga. He's the brains behind the operation, the one who saw the potential to turn museum-goers into groove-seekers. And here's the twist - most of the band members haven't exactly spent their lives in music conservatories honing their craft. Nope, they're just a bunch of creative souls who let their instincts guide them to crafting the catchiest tunes you'll ever hear.

So before we dive into dissecting their music, let's take a moment to appreciate what OTYKEN stands for. Their name isn't just a random assortment of letters; oh no, it's a symbol of power, a sacred spot where even the fiercest warriors lay down their swords. With OTYKEN, it's not just about the music - it's about embarking on a sonic journey to a holy place where the beats are as potent as the magic in the air.

Flashback to one year ago, February 24th, when the music scene was electrified by the arrival of "PHENOMENON," the band's latest album. Among its 12 tracks, the opener, "Phenomenon," emerged as a standout, luring me with its captivating blend of melodies and rhythms. As I surrendered to its spell, I found myself transported to distant realms, my ears rejoicing in the sheer delight of their musical fusion. Despite the language barrier and my limited knowledge of Siberian culture, their music spoke to me on a deeper level. It's as if they tapped into the wisdom of nature itself, with lyrics like "heal with nature – it heals better than a shaman" from the song "Genesis" resonating profoundly, especially during the lockdown when the outdoors felt like a distant dream. Their music became my refuge, offering solace and serenity in times of longing and uncertainty. So, as I immersed myself in their sonic landscape, yearning for what I couldn't have, I found solace in their enchanting melodies, each note a testament to the transcendent power of music to soothe the soul.

“In the toughest of times, we come to You”

The music wraps around me like a warm embrace, refusing to let go, while the lead singer's voice holds me captivated, akin to a skilled magician entrancing their audience. Every frame of the music video is a masterpiece, meticulously designed to flow seamlessly with the music's rhythm. Unexpected shifts in tempo surprise and delight, introducing elements like traditional throat singing, a gem foreign to many Western ears. Interestingly, this unique vocal talent is the only member of OTYKEN with formal musical training, a true multi-instrumentalist who orchestrates a symphony of sounds under the guidance of their producer, Andrey Medonos.

In the video, we're treated to captivating close-up shots of traditional instruments being expertly played, seamlessly intertwined with breathtaking aerial views showcasing the vast beauty of the Siberian wilderness. The band members move with a graceful fluidity, their motions harmonizing perfectly with the rhythmic pulse of the music. Watching them, I can't help but feel the urge to join in and dance along in the background. The focus on the band allows ample time to admire their attire, a vital aspect of OTYKEN's identity and their representation. Their clothing draws from various Siberian native cultures, mainly the central one, featuring modernized designs for practicality while still honoring traditional elements like headpieces and jewelry, such as the distinctive "Khakass pogo”, these headpieces are meticulously adorned with fur, wolf fangs, bear claws etc. OTYKEN's coats and patterns pay homage to the Chulyms and Ainu people, (most of OTYKEN’s members live in villages along the Chulym river) while their footwear hails from the Taimyr region. Look closely, and you'll spot ribbons adorning some sleeves – symbols of good luck tied to branches. And let's not overlook the striking face paintings adorning some members; each design intricately reflects the core themes of OTYKEN's music, from the rugged Siberian landscape to the elemental forces of wind and water. I admire how they imbue such depth of meaning into their clothing, even with modernized designs. It's fascinating how much you can learn about a culture simply by studying their attire. It truly mesmerizes me.

In conclusion, OTYKEN's latest album "PHENOMENON" takes listeners on a captivating sonic journey, with the titular track standing out as a mesmerizing blend of haunting melodies and pulsating rhythms. As explored in this review, I believe the band's potential to share their music and culture beyond borders is evident, offering a window into the diverse tapestry of Siberian traditions. With each listen, OTYKEN proves to be a source of solace and inspiration for me, their music serving as a guiding light through my murky days. I eagerly anticipate seeing this band continue to shine and perhaps even pioneer a new genre specific to the Siberian people. To truly appreciate their artistry, I recommend immersing yourself in their music first without the translated lyrics, allowing the auditory experience to unfold organically before delving into the deeper meanings within the lyrics. OTYKEN's "PHENOMENON" is not just an album; it's a testament to the transcendent power of music to unite souls and inspire across cultures and borders.

category: Music, Music video, Culture, Siberian Pop-Folk

rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

written by Michaela Kaczorová

[kaczoartreviews]

Consequently Human: I Think, Therefore I Am, Not Merely a Substitute

reading time: 9 min.

“ From the perspective of others, I am part of the world, but when I observe the world from my perspective I am nowhere to be found. To observe is to create perspective. I can never cease to be the point of origin from my perspective. I observe that which is not myself. This is the first principle to find.” - Ergo Proxy

The dimly lit room bathed in the glow of my laptop screen. Clicking through YouTube videos, I stumbled upon a thumbnail showcasing enigmatic anime characters. Intrigued, I clicked, and English-dubbed voices filled the space. While watching, my initial confusion transformed into fascination. The animation and enigmatic characters held my attention, even though my young age left me with an incomplete understanding. Years later, I found myself in the same room, armed with a notebook. As I hit play on "Ergo Proxy" once more, a familiar excitement surged within me, igniting a newfound intensity for the series. Yet, despite its undeniable strengths in plot, character development, and thematic depth, I couldn't shake the feeling of its under-appreciated status in the world of mainstream anime. As the episodes unfolded before me, I found myself ensnared in its narrative intricacies and rich philosophical symbolism. Each scene seemed to beckon me deeper into its labyrinthine depths, compelling me to pause and jot down notes. The complexity of the characters and their growth, along with the nuanced storytelling, left me in awe, yet hungry for more. Delving into each scene with a critical eye, I uncovered layers of depth that left me marveling at the series' narrative complexity. It was as if every frame held a hidden treasure, waiting to be discovered by those willing to look beyond the surface. While "Ergo Proxy" may not boast the same wide audience as other anime series, its impact on those who appreciate its genre-defying qualities is profound. In a world saturated with formulaic narratives, it offers a refreshing and thought-provoking viewing experience, one that challenges viewers to delve into its cyberpunk post-apocalyptic psychological thriller story and emerge with a newfound appreciation for the art of animated storytelling. 

I'm eager to discuss "Ergo Proxy" and convey why it holds such significance for me in the realm of storytelling, while also being mindful not to reveal too much. The series stands out as one of the most intricate shows I've encountered, making it a challenge to summarize its essence. Given the nature of this show, it lends itself to in-depth analysis where a single character or element could be explored at length, potentially spanning several pages.

In the year 7207, Earth lies in ruins, devastated by an ecological catastrophe that wiped out 85% of its human population 5000 years ago. In the aftermath, survivors took refuge in fortified city-states like Romdeau, protected by colossal domes. Within these cities, humanoid robots known as AutoReivs aid in daily life, governed by the Collective Will system. However, a mysterious virus, Cogito, grants some AutoReivs self-awareness, leading to unrest and a string of murders. Agent Re-l Mayer investigates alongside her partner Iggy, uncovering a government conspiracy and the existence of enigmatic beings called Proxies. Meanwhile, Vincent Law, an immigrant striving for acceptance, becomes entangled in the intrigue, drawn to Re-l and haunted by surreal visions. Pursued by authorities and plagued by uncertainty, Re-l, Vincent, and a young infected AutoReiv named Pino form an unlikely alliance to unravel the secrets of Romdeau, confront the truth of their shattered world, and grapple with the essence of humanity.

As someone who's grown to deeply appreciate "Ergo Proxy," one aspect of its narrative that I absolutely adore is how it plunges the viewer headfirst into the unknown alongside its characters. Instead of spoon-feeding us explanations, the story delights in keeping us in the dark, just like the characters themselves. It's like a rollercoaster ride of deception, lies, and secrets, where I am constantly left guessing what's really going on behind the scenes. Right from the get-go, I can't help but question the seemingly perfect society we're presented with. Is it all just a facade? Is there a darker truth lurking beneath the surface? These questions only intensify as the story unfolds, keeping me hooked and hungry for answers.

And boy, does the journey to uncover the truth pack a punch! I am right there alongside the characters, piecing together the puzzle of this mysterious world. From a skeptical detective on the hunt for truth, to a guy trying to figure out his own identity, to moments that whisk me back to carefree childhood days, every twist and turn keeps me on my toes. What's truly fascinating is how the story unfolds not just through the characters' actions, but through the intricate web of symbolism woven into every scene. It's like a cryptic riddle waiting to be unraveled, with each revelation bringing me closer to the heart of the mystery. And let's not forget the genius genre switches that keeps me guessing at every turn. One moment I am knee-deep in cyberpunk crime fiction, and the next, I am swept away in a whimsical, Disney-like tale. It's a wild ride from start to finish, and I wouldn't have it any other way!

As I explore the rich tapestry of "Ergo Proxy," two foundational aspects of its world-building demand attention. Firstly, there's the captivating narrative surrounding the Cogito Virus. The term "Cogito" isn't arbitrary; it's a nod to the profound philosophical concept articulated by René Descartes: "Cogito, ergo sum" - "I think, therefore I am." Descartes' musings on the nature of consciousness provide a compelling backdrop for Ergo Proxy's exploration of what it truly means to be human. But how does this philosophical pondering translate into the world of Ergo Proxy? Enter the AutoReivs. Infected by the Cogito Virus, these once-mundane robots transcend their programming to attain self-awareness. Suddenly, they find themselves grappling with questions of identity and existence, blurring the lines between artificial intelligence and human consciousness. Birth, growth, emotionality, inner turmoils, mortality - the AutoReivs now experience the full spectrum of human emotions and experiences. It's a truly mesmerizing journey to witness, as each infected AutoReiv emerges as a unique and complex individual, mirroring the diversity of human personalities. As I observe their evolution throughout the series, I'm left pondering a profound question: Can machines truly evolve to embody the essence of humanity? It's a thought-provoking inquiry that resonates deeply and lingers in my mind, inviting further exploration and contemplation.

The second topic that goes beyond just pondering about our existence - it's all about why we're here in the first place. Hence, there is "raison d'être," a fancy French term that basically means "reason to live" or "reason for being." In “Ergo Proxy”, this concept takes center stage, adding a delightful twist to our philosophical musings. Picture this: in Romdeau, humans and AutoReivs live side by side, each with their own designated purpose. Whether it's tackling mundane tasks or diving into high-stakes government gigs, everyone's got a role to play. The AutoReivs, bless their mechanical hearts, serve as companions or handy work buddies, fulfilling whatever needs their human masters throw their way. It's a neat little system that keeps the city running like clockwork, with nobody daring to peek beyond the dome into the wild unknown. But here's the kicker: what happens when someone - human or AutoReiv - loses their reason to exist? “Ergo Proxy” gleefully invites the viewer to ponder this question, exploring how folks cope when their raison d'être goes MIA. From Vincent, Re-l, and Pino embarking on their soul-searching journey to the infected AutoReivs yearning for a purpose like a bunch of lost souls, the show serves up a smorgasbord of existential crises. And let's not forget about the AutoReivs themselves. Poor things are thrown for a loop when they suddenly gain self-awareness, with some of them going off the deep end faster than you can say "existential crisis." It's a wild ride of paranoia, delusion, and maybe even a sprinkle of aggression thrown in for good measure.

At some point, I couldn't help but immerse myself in the profound meanings and existential questions that this show evokes. I'm grateful for this introspective journey, as it prompts deep contemplation. Looking back, I can't help but wonder how I would have navigated such existential depths when I encountered this show the first time. While my admiration for Ergo Proxy remains steadfast, I must express some disappointment regarding its narrative direction. In particular, I feel the series missed an opportunity to delve deeper into psychological exploration and to create a more chilling reflection of our society. Despite its potential to address relevant topics, the story falls short in fully realizing this ambition. Released in 2006, Ergo Proxy remains remarkably relevant today, resonating with our modern world of technological advancements and geopolitical tensions. Despite its relevance, the series has yet to garner the widespread recognition it deserves. Its creators, Dai Sato and Shuko Murase, are known for their involvement in more mainstream projects such as Samurai Champloo or Cowboy Bebop, both of which hold high esteem in my anime collection. However, it appears that Ergo Proxy tends to cater more to niche audiences rather than reaching a global viewership. As someone who wasn't aware of its underground status at the age of eleven, I consider Ergo Proxy to be a true hidden gem in the anime industry. It saddens me that it hasn't achieved the popularity it merits. Nevertheless, I remain hopeful that those who appreciate intellectually stimulating narratives will discover and cherish this show.

I believe that “Ergo Proxy" possesses a universal allure that transcends the confines of traditional anime fandom. While its multifaceted plot and philosophical underpinnings may initially seem daunting, the series welcomes viewers of all backgrounds to explore its narrative depths. If you consider yourself as someone with a keen interest in philosophy, you too may find the show's exploration of existential themes particularly engaging, offering a profound reflection on the human condition. Through the characters' poignant struggles and moments of resilience, Ergo Proxy invites viewers to ponder their own existence and aspirations for the future, resonating on a deeply personal level. Beyond its surface appeal, the series is enriched by its intricate symbolism, As much as the series are able to mirror the outmost scary and paranoid ideas society have for the future on earth. These aspects adds layers of meaning and invites deeper contemplation. Despite its niche appeal, I was captivated by the complexity woven throughout its 22 episodes and the development of its central characters. I hope you will also find yourself entranced by Pino's transformation from a mechanical puppet to a sentient being capable of human emotions. Pino’s life in “ergo proxy” serves as a powerful allegory, echoing the timeless tale of Pinocchio's journey towards self-discovery. “Ergo Proxy” prompts introspection on individuality, morality, and the essence of humanity itself, leaving a lasting impression that extends far beyond the screen. In a media landscape saturated with formulaic narratives, Ergo Proxy stands as a testament to the transformative power of animated storytelling, challenging viewers to embrace its genre-defying qualities and emerge with a renewed appreciation for the medium.

"Even if I was someone, people couldn't comprehend me. And even if they could, they wouldn't be able to communicate it to those around them. I do not belong to the world. That is the world's limit, the boundary between the world and the self.” - Ergo Proxy

category: Film, Society, Dystopia, Cyberpunk, Philosophy, Psychology

rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

written by Michaela Kaczorová

[kaczoartreviews]

Saltburn: A Ticket to the 'Why Did I Even Bother' Zone, or How I Nearly Aged Prematurely

reading time: 4 min.

"We’re all about to lose our minds," I muttered. The cold wind swept through the deserted street as I stood before the old cinema in my hometown, its faded sign barely discernible against the dimming evening sky. Leaning against the cracked concrete wall, I stared blankly at the poster on the entrance, announcing the latest blockbuster. "But wait, the movie's already been out for four months," I thought to myself, hardly surprised they hadn't taken it down yet.

The poster showcased a kaleidoscopic image of the cast from "Saltburn," the latest film by Emerald Fennel, a renowned director known for her previous work, "Promising Young Women." Despite the dramatic display, my gaze remained disinterested, unimpressed by yet another Hollywood spectacle. It visually reminded me of "Everything Everywhere All at Once," a film I appreciate along with the poster's artist, James Jean. However, as I scrutinized the poster, my mind wandered, unraveling the film's plot with a critical eye. Each scene played out in my imagination, increasingly clichéd, as I mentally dissected the storyline and characters. With a resigned sigh, I pushed away from the wall, already thinking of watching the movie on my laptop from some available sites in the comfort of my home.

Saltburn, a film delving into a pathetic obsession with identity or just another narrative exploiting the eat-the-rich trope? I doubt this movie will capture your interest, despite its stunning filtered visuals reminiscent of "Call Me by Your Name" and a talented cast. The movie's narrative is obscured by an atrocious font, which would saltburn(ed) even your eyes. In one scene, we witness the main character, Oliver Quick (played by Barry Keoghan), discussing his relationship with Felix Catton (portrayed by Jacob Elrodi). Oliver, a walking conflicted contradiction, professes his love for Felix while simultaneously denying being in love with him.

We're introduced to Oliver's one-sided obsession with Felix at Oxford in 2006. As the story unfolds, Oliver becomes increasingly desperate to get close to Felix, fabricating a tragic backstory to maintain his proximity. He even hooks up with Felix's girlfriend in an attempt to further infiltrate Felix's life. When both Felix and his girlfriend become wary of Oliver's fake poverty act and clinginess, Oliver manipulates Felix by feigning his father's death, eliciting pity. The movie portrays Felix as a wealthy, naive individual from a long line of affluent families, suggesting that he may attempt to rescue Oliver from his fabricated misery. This leads to Felix inviting Oliver to their Saltburn Estate for the summer.

During Oliver's stay, his obsessions lead to erratic and messy behavior. He begins to exert control over Venetia (Alison Oliver), Felix's sister, by flirting with her and showing his not-so-twilight-Saga-Edward-Cullen vampiric tendencies. Let’s just say, this behavior doesn't sit well with Felix nor Farleigh (Archie Madekwe), the Catton siblings’ cousin, who witnesses Oliver's nightly activities and then shares them with Felix. Oliver manipulates multiple members of the Catton family, including persuading Lady Elspeth (Rosamunde Pike) to believe false accusations against her friend Pamela (Carey Mulligan). When Oliver confronts Farleigh, he threatens him with banishment, but ends up engaging in giving Farleigh a handjob. But hey, do not ask me why suddenly Oliver thought that would be the most effective way to threaten Farleigh. In the end, both characters are sent away from the estate. However, Felix eventually discovers Oliver's lies, leading to Oliver hitting rock bottom. The movie fails to adequately showcase Felix's realization of Oliver's lies, making the plot twist unexpected but ultimately nonsensical.

Oliver's psychotic breakdown culminates in him killing Felix in the estate's garden maze on Oliver's birthday. Unable to be with Felix, Oliver adopts his identity and proceeds to eliminate all members of the Catton family. He orchestrates the deaths of Venetia and Lady Elspeth, manipulating them into suicide and murdering Lady Elspeth on her deathbed. Sir James (Richard E. Grant) dies after Oliver's departure from the estate, following the killings of the Catton siblings. Towards the movie's end, Oliver confronts Elspeth, ultimately taking over the estate and obtaining all its assets. The director's choice to reveal Oliver's entire plan near the end seems unnecessary, as the audience is already aware of his obsessive nature from the beginning. I think having been spoon-fed this plan of his wouldn’t change anything we were already aware of, hence the uselessness of this scene. Additionally, the portrayal of Oliver's depraved mind through graphic scenes, like his bathtub snack time or the grave scene, feels gratuitous and fails to add depth to his character. While these scenes generated attention on platforms like TikTok and other social media, they didn't effectively convey Oliver's uncontrollable obsession and desire, meaning instead of creating such useless scenes focus on the uncontrolled-individual-with-undeveloped-two-dimensional-personality that was portrayed there. The fame this movie received on social media, underscores a lack of understanding among mainstream audiences regarding the level of cinematic gore depicted in certain films. As evidence, you should not even dare look up the summary of the plot to "Titane" by Julia Ducournau.

Overall, I'd give this movie a 2 out of 5 stars. While it touches on themes of desire and obsession, the execution falls short. Despite some memorable moments like Jacob Elordi smoking and Archie Madekewe singing Pet Shop Boys' “Rent,”, which is cinema on its own, the film largely feels like a two-hour agony. I won't be watching movies from our old cinema again; the disappointment in modern filmmaking isn't worth the wrinkles on my forehead. For this portrayal of British classicism in the 2000s, I recommend streaming the movie on Amazon Prime Video.

category: Film, Culture, Psychological Thriller Drama

rating: ⭐⭐/ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

written by Michaela Kaczorová