Name: The Apotheosis of VaVaVoom
Brand: Ashtray Navigations

Bonus disc

Bonus disc: No

Catalogue number

VHF156

Colour

Green

Colour details

Discogs ID

Format multiplier

Download code

Download code: No

Rough Trade Exclusive

Rough Trade Exclusive: No

Extended format

Extended format: No

Format detail

Format Music GB

Limited edition

Release date

2022-11-25

Signed copies

Signed copies: No

Supplier GB

Forte

Tax rate GB

Standard:20

UPC / Barcode

783881015614

Total Cap

1 / Green / LP

Artist

Ashtray Navigations

Genre GB

Psychedelic

Label GB

Ashtray Navigations is an artist collective led by Phil Todd, formerly a solo project and now a collaborative effort. Phil Todd was the founder of the now defunct Betley Welcomes Careful Drivers label and currently runs Memoirs Of An Aesthete.
With a sound that blends elements of experimental noise, psychedelic rock, and improvisation, Ashtray Navigations has carved out their own unique sonic territory. Drawing inspiration from artists such as Vibracathedral Orchestra, No-Neck Blues Band, and Sunburned Hand Of The Man among others, their music is characterized by sprawling compositions filled with layers of distorted guitars, hypnotic drones, and swirling electronics.
Known for their prolific output and unpredictable live performances, Ashtray Navigations continues to push boundaries in the realm of underground music. Their discography spans over two decades and includes collaborations with notable artists like Jackie O Motherfucker and Wolf Eyes. With each release, they explore new sonic landscapes while maintaining their signature experimental approach.

Third VHF dispatch from the mighty and prolific Ashtray Navigations, following 2020’s mega and extremely popular Imaginary Greatest Hits package. The curiously titled The Apotheosis of VaVaVoom is one of Phil Todd and Melanie O’Dubhshlaine’s most direct and rocking packages, with mucho ripping lead guitar action backed by some absolutely fun bubbling synth and drum grooves. “Irons Three” kicks off with wicked wah’d out leads, followed by the subdued ambience of “Tasteful Grey Putting” and “Appropros Tower” and a segue into the driving “Hinges on the Clapometer.” 

Side 2’s opening combo of “Slush Puppy Window” and “Avatar Down The Highway” sounds like a head on collision between Terje Rypdal and Tangerine Dream on a dark bender, with laser guitar over a bed of tumbling electronics and tiny noises. The closing “Crack Another Bloodcapsule” is one of Ashtray Nav’s all time best, like a lost krautrock classic jam with a driving rhythm from guest drummer Alex Neilson.

The Apotheosis of VaVaVoom

Music GB