Prophets of Shortwave by Coraline Ada Ehmke
Prophets of Shortwave by Coraline Ada Ehmke
Review by @SamanthaJaneSmith
Disturbing is how I would describe Coraline Ada Ehmke’s latest album, “Prophets of Shortwave: A Documentary“, but don’t let that stop you from listening. Disturbing it is, but it is addictive and touched me on a deep intense level and in a very personal way.
The album is based around a set of recordings of extreme religious groups in the USA (the prophets) trying to proselytize the listener over the shortwave. It is, however, much more than that it’s an insight in to a world that is deeply polarizing as it must be said that there are many who will believe in the prophetic nature of the men on the shortwave. Just to say that some may find the content triggering so please be aware.
From the very first track, “He told me to turn on the microphone”, you are immersed in a different world touching on subjects like death, sin and sickness from a very extreme religious perspective. It isn’t only the words that affect you, the music leads you on – I particularly felt “What does dead mean?” was a powerful piece of music that hits at a visceral level.
In the end it will be up to the listener to take from the album what they feel is important – whatever you take it will surely be emotional. Clearly, for Ehmke this is something deeply personal – I understand why – for many the words are not just words…….
Do take a listen. You need to. It’s important.
Follow Coraline Ada Ehmke in the Fediverse: @CoralineAda
