Helm by Ulaan Markhor

Ulaan Markhor returns with Helm, a new batch of songs that explore the dissonant, dark corners of post-punk and it’s many permutations. Steven R. Smith’s first recordings as Ulaan Markhor surfaced in 2012, and since that self-titled debut LP he’s continued to refine the sound and feel of the project. Once more the focus is the intersection of rhythmic groove and scorched guitar (“The Meters-meets-Amon Duul”), but on Helm the nuanced, meditative pieces built around spike fiddle or organ are as evocative and commanding. Just like the many great records he’s made before now, Helm is gorgeous, moody, deep and above all, killer.

Steven R. Smith is the mind of Hala Strana, Ulaan Khol, Ulaan Passerine, Ulaan Markhor (& so many more), but also makes music under his given name. Active since the mid-90s, Smith has recorded a staggering totem of work, and every release is as good as the next.