As I understand it, small blue torch is the duo of [Campbell] Kneale and Eso Steel‘s Richard Francis (though line-up changes in this scene are not uncommon). Both are among the finest of new zealand’s current sound artists. Offering an epic double cd-r compilation as their american debut, Small Blue Torch create lovely drones and soundscapes with occasional bouts of abrasiveness and industrial/mechanical percussive repetitions. Their work is often meditative but still more dynamic than the bulk of either artists’ catalog. SBT offer haunting feedback which floats symphonically between the speakers, and with the exception of one out of place saxophone excursion, the duo create an often deeply pleasing environment. Some of the tracks are mastered to end abruptly, which is a bit disconcerting for close listening, but all in all this is great modern stoner music, best when played kinda softly
– Dan Vallor: Muckraker #9
Small Blue Torch started as Campbell Kneale’s first real recording ‘noise’ band, and was quite aggressive in their approach (Kneale describes these sessions as ‘[We would] get together on sunday afternoons, demolish equipment, record live-in-the-living room and release the odd thing’. When Kneale relocated from Dunedin to Eellington, he formed the much calmer and controlled Lugosi
Discography
- Small Blue Torch [Celebrate Psi Phenomenon]
- Full Fathom Five Cassette [Celebrate Psi Phenomenon]
- Stockpile Cassette [Celebrate Psi Phenomenon]
- Split Cassette [W/ Hataitai Bowling Club Celebrate Psi Phenomenon]
- Split Cassette [W/ Birchville Cat Motel Celebrate Psi Phenomenon]
- Small Blue Torch Double Cd-R [1999 Last Visible Dog]