Immaterial Possession: Teleport Through Avant-Garde Sound and Vision

Exploring the Enigmatic Soundscapes of Immaterial Possession

Immaterial Possession, an avant-garde quartet hailing from Athens, Georgia, crafts a mesmerizing blend of folk, psychedelia, world music, and progressive rock. Their music transports listeners into a realm where the boundaries of genre dissolve, creating an experience that is both otherworldly and deeply rooted in artistic expression.​immaterial

Origins and Formation

The genesis of Immaterial Possession traces back to Atlanta, where multidisciplinary artists Cooper Holmes and Madeline Polites were immersed in the city's underground DIY music, theater, and arts scene. Seeking a more expansive creative environment, they relocated to Athens, a town renowned for its bohemian culture and musical heritage. In Athens, they were joined by seasoned percussionist John Spiegel and keyboardist/woodwinds player Kiran Fernandes, whose lineage includes John Fernandes of the Elephant 6 collective, lending the band a connection to the indie music scene's rich history .​Discogs

Dressed in whimsical costumes and driven by a desire to create music that was both transformative and immersive, Immaterial Possession quickly established a unique presence in Athens' music scene. Their performances were not merely concerts but theatrical experiences, blending music with visual art to captivate audiences fully.​firerecords.com

Discography and Artistic Evolution

Immaterial Possession (2020)

The band's self-titled debut album, released in 2020 on Cloud Recordings, introduced their distinctive sound to the world. This record is a rich tapestry of melodies that traverse dreamlike meanderings, guided by a DIY punk ethos . Tracks like "Midnight Wander" and "See Through Stares" exemplify their ability to blend the heavy with the somber, creating an auditory journey that is both intriguing and emotionally resonant .​immaterial

In the absence of touring to support the album, the band pivoted their focus towards creating a series of accompanying short films. These films, characterized by optical illusions and handcrafted elements, drew inspiration from Dadaist, Surrealist, and avant-garde filmmakers, engaging viewers in a pre-digital type of human magic .​Flagpole

Mercy of the Crane Folk (2023)

Building upon the foundation laid by their debut, Immaterial Possession's sophomore album, Mercy of the Crane Folk, was released in May 2023 by Fire Records. This record reflects a more assured and expansive approach, with tracks like "Red Curtain" and "Ancient Mouth" showcasing the band's growth and exploration of new sonic territories.​

The album was primarily recorded in Athens, Georgia, and features contributions from Jon Vogt alongside the core members. The band's commitment to their craft is evident in the album's intricate compositions and the immersive experience it offers to listeners .​Week in Pop+1firerecords.com+1

Sugar in a Memory (2024)

In January 2024, Immaterial Possession released the single "Sugar in a Memory," further expanding their sonic palette. The track continues their tradition of blending folk, psychedelia, and world music, offering listeners a glimpse into the band's evolving soundscape .​immaterial

Naked When You Come (The Lollipops Cover) (2025)

In early 2025, the band released their first cover song, "Naked When You Come," originally by The Lollipops. This track features a groove reminiscent of contemporary hip-hop, infused with a 60s delivery and existential lyrics, showcasing the band's ability to reinterpret classic songs through their unique lens .​immaterial possession

Visual and Conceptual Identity

Immaterial Possession's artistic vision extends beyond music, encompassing visual elements that enhance their storytelling. Their performances are characterized by elaborate costumes and set designs that transport audiences into fantastical realms. The band's short films and music videos, such as the black-and-white visuals for "Midnight Wander," draw inspiration from early experimental cinema, Dadaism, and Surrealism, creating a cohesive aesthetic that complements their sonic explorations .​Flagpole

Looking Ahead

As of April 2025, Immaterial Possession continues to captivate audiences with their innovative approach to music and art. Their forthcoming projects are eagerly anticipated, promising to further push the boundaries of genre and artistic expression. Fans and newcomers alike can stay connected with the band through their Bandcamp and Instagram pages, where they share updates and glimpses into their creative process.