Mike Moya, the experimental guitarist best known for his work with Godspeed You! Black Emperor, has ventured into even more challenging sonic territories with his project Set Fire to Flames. The album Telegraphs in Negative / Mouths Trapped in Static is one of the most bewildering yet fascinating records ever made. It’s an experience that requires patience, but for those willing to engage, the journey into its chaotic beauty can be incredibly rewarding.

The album is often described as a frightening, unfathomable beast of sound. At first listen, Telegraphs in Negative / Mouths Trapped in Static might seem intimidating and disorienting, with its sprawling soundscapes and unpredictable compositions. Yet, this complexity is what makes the album so unique and profound. Each track pushes the boundaries of music, combining elements of ambient noise, industrial, and avant-garde styles to create a layered, atmospheric exploration of sound.

What makes Set Fire to Flames so compelling is its ability to intertwine seemingly random noise with deeply emotional undertones. The textures and tones on this album evoke a feeling of vastness and emptiness—like being lost in an endless void of sound. It challenges traditional song structures, relying instead on atmospheric shifts, the clashing of instruments, and occasional bursts of melody to create an experience that is both alien and familiar.

Mike Moya’s contribution to this project is significant, both in terms of his instrumental prowess and his ability to shape a world of sound that refuses to be neatly classified. The work of Set Fire to Flames resonates with anyone who appreciates the exploration of music as an emotional, transformative tool. It’s a record that asks the listener to be patient, to let go of their preconceived notions of what music “should” be, and to immerse themselves fully in the chaos of its composition.

If you’re someone who is interested in music that pushes boundaries and challenges your understanding of sound, Telegraphs in Negative / Mouths Trapped in Static is a must-listen. It’s an album that may take time to truly appreciate, but once you do, it will open up an entirely new dimension of sonic possibilities.