Possession Subcosmique starts with Presence Du Futur's three songs, "Ufographia fig1," Ufographia fig2," and "Rayonnement Cosmique." As hinted at by the titles, these all give a sci-fi, retrofuturist look at space, its denizens, and its processes. "Ufographia fig1" is an engaging mix of droning layers living underneath higher, arpeggiated synths that evoke the mysteries of the night skies. Reminiscent of older electronic acts like Software, the two "Ufographia" tracks will certainly strike a chord (!) with any fan of synth and sci-fi. The second part of "Ufographia" continues with the structure of the first, but brings about a darker tone. One may get the feeling that the first part is seeing the UFO and the second is what happens after it lands. Again, this one is lighter and feels like a nicely inspired throwback, both setting up the third track to follow. "Rayonnement Cosmique" has Présence du Futur taking an even darker tone than "Ufographia fig2," focusing less on the vibrant arpeggios and more on bleak oscillations. Showcasing the darker side of their art, the final piece on their side is decidedly grim, echoing the cosmic radiation of the title. One can feel the synths peeling through the speakers, entering one's body, cell by cell. This is definitely the most physical piece on the first half.

 

Bête Lumineuse's three songs, all part of "Zersetzung," take a very different approach to electronics than their splitmate. "Zersetzung-1" is a low, slow burn that haunts the darker edges, fluctuating and oscillating at the sides, moving forward like an interstellar manta ray. Dredging up rough feelings and emotions, it sets the stage for the second part, "Zersetzung-2." Opening with haunting German samples (Zersetzung was the psychological warfare technique used in East Germany in the 70's and 80's), the bleakness is put right into the listener's face, unavoidable and undeniable. Here Bete Lumineuse moves closer to the death industrial fringes, building their soundscape out of low, fast oscillations distorted by higher, slower layers, utilizing interference to create a sense of dread and unease. The third and final part, "Zersetzung-3," pulls the industrial sounds closer in, evoking imagery of both factories and war, the terrifying end for us all. Deliberate and unwavering, "Zersetzung-3" gives the listener time to contemplate what was just played, what is important, and what makes them afraid.

 

Possession Subcosmique is six tracks of engaging electronics, utilizing varied approaches, not only between the two artists, but among their compositions. Whether sci-fi or industrial dystopia, Présence du Futur and Bête Lumineuse both evoke a wide range of emotions over a short amount of time. Showing that the electronic scene in Quebec is still strong as ever, this cassette will enthrall fans of dark electronics as well as those looking for some interesting synth work.