This is the first full-length CD for the duo of Thad Calabrese (bass) and guitarist/singer Justin Foley. Black Madonna is one of those CDs that is really difficult to try to describe. Experimental doesn't really do them justice, but that's a good place to start. The music is very minimalist, with just a guitar, bass and drum machine. There are long instrumental parts with a basic riff played over and over. There are also more progressive, psychedelic and doomy sections.
Foley's vocals are sometimes harsh and aggressive, other times a little more melodic and controlled. This is an unusual, but very interesting album. No matter if it's a one minute interlude or a 14 minute epic, The Austerity Program can hold your interest and keep you wondering what's coming next.
