The Bug vs. Earth… In a way it’s hard to imagine how this took so long to happen. Both artists have been exploring and distorting their respective genres for 20 plus years. In that time they’ve both defined and redefined what “heavy” means by pushing the boundaries of beautiful/ugly and minimalist/maximalist music. Two uncompromising outsiders meeting at last for “Boa/Cold,” the double A-side single set for release on Ninja Tune. The rare collaboration will be available as a part of Record Store Day’s Black Friday exclusives on Nov. 28th.

The second track, “Cold” is currently streaming.
Earth (and it’s mainstay member Dylan Carlson) first appeared in the early 90’s and came to prominence with their Sub Pop release “Earth 2”. A record that was an exercise in distorted droning minimalist riffage, and was the blueprint for what Dylan coined at the time “ambient metal”. A style that was explored by many after, but probably best exemplified by the output of Sunn O))), who’s member Greg Anderson went on to release the later Earth projects on his Southern Lord label. Records that retained the early aesthetic, but started to incorporate elements of country, folk, and cinematic elements. A style still being pushed forward and explored on his latest Southern Lord release “Primitive And Deadly.”

Kevin Martin’s career spans the same time frame. Techno Animal, Ice, God, Razor X, King Midas Sound, and of course the The Bug moniker. All of which explore(d) the fringes of experimental and heavy music. With his recently released Angels & Devils (follow up to the acclaimed document of London’s decay “London Zoo”) receiving high praise across the board, he’s once again put his sonic stamp on the here and now with his collaborators Liz Harris (of Grouper), Copeland, Miss Red, Gonjasufi, Flowdan, Death Grips, Justin Broadrick (Godflesh/Jesu), and Warrior Queen.

Originally envisioned as being a collaborator for Angels & Devils, it became apparent early on that the tracks with Earth needed room to stretch out/drone and be their own thing. Two tracks, “Boa” & “Cold”, that sees Dylan’s signature guitar sound sitting seamlessly with some of Kevin’s most destructively heady bass explorations.