Review
Split
deliriously...daniel
MindSpring Memories & Zhurnal Mod Box Set Review Patience is a virtue that goes both ways.
tape presents a beautifully dark contrast that is nevertheless elegant in its simplicity. This is especially true
Just as MindSpring Memories &
when setting each piece’s unfolded,
Zhurnal Mod’s Split release rewards
juxtaposing j-card artwork side by
those who savor its 80-minute
side, building the set’s thoughtful
runtime, its box set likewise reveals
mystique.
the careful sincerity of its crafter. The only minor gripe is the All aspects of the Zhurnal Mod
thickness of the box. Though it was
project exude an atmosphere of
thoroughly packaged and survived
homey, unpretentious earnestness.
its trip from Russia unscathed,
From his cover art clippings from
when compared to other boxes like
Soviet fashion magazines to the
Geometric Lullaby’s b e g o t t e n
place-setting of his promotional cassette photos, the Russian
自杀 sextet, MindSpring Memories & Zhurnal Mod’s storage system
artist’s endeavors feel authentically
requires gentler treatment when
anachronistic—like having a real pen
opening and closing.
pal from post-Lenin St. Petersburg. This handwrought touch shows itself in the construction of the Split box set. Nestled in a quaint cloth cushion atop a segmenting sliver of rope, these tapes—the Split itself and a bonus Zhurnal Mod release— are stunning in execution. With the release’s title printed on body, the celestial tundra-castle below is raised to a new dimension of majesty. Likewise, this same effect gives the transparent shell a graceful sense of stylish temperance. Though not as layered as Split, Zhurnal Mod’s bonus 26 /
