Hashisheen: The End of Law
An Immersive Odyssey into Mysticism, History, and the Human Psyche
Introduction
• Hashisheen: The End of Law is not merely an album; it is an intricate tapestry weaving together mysticism, history, philosophy, and avant-garde artistry.
• Released in 1999 under the Belgian label Sub Rosa, this conceptual masterpiece was produced and arranged by the visionary Bill Laswell.
• The album defies conventional genres, blending spoken word, ambient soundscapes, world music influences, and experimental sound design to explore the enigmatic legacy of the Hashisheens—the legendary sect of Assassins founded by Hasan-i Sabbah in 11th-century Persia.
• Featuring an extraordinary ensemble of artists—including William S. Burroughs, Iggy Pop, Patti Smith, Genesis P-Orridge, Sussan Deyhim, Jah Wobble, and many others—the album transcends traditional music boundaries.
• It delves deep into themes such as rebellion, enlightenment, the nature of truth, and the eternal quest for meaning.
• This comprehensive analysis seeks to uncover the layers of Hashisheen: The End of Law, examining its themes, musical compositions, lyrical content, and the historical and cultural contexts that inform it.
• By synthesizing reviews, critical analyses, and historical insights, we aim to present an in-depth understanding of this monumental work.
Album Overview
• Release Year: 1999
• Producer: Bill Laswell
• Label: Sub Rosa
• Genre: Experimental, Ambient, World Music, Spoken Word
• Concept: Exploration of the history, philosophy, and mysticism of the Hashisheens (Assassins)
Concept and Inspiration
Historical Context
• The project delves into the enigmatic story of Hasan-i Sabbah, the founder of the Hashisheens, who claimed to be the incarnation of God on earth.
• The Hashisheens were renowned for their secretive practices and the fear they instilled through targeted assassinations during a turbulent period marked by the Crusades and internal conflicts within the Islamic Empire.
• Their influence extended from Persia to Egypt, leaving an indelible mark on history.
Philosophical Underpinnings
• Bill Laswell was deeply influenced by the works of William S. Burroughs and Brion Gysin, whose experimental "cut-up" techniques in literature and art significantly impacted modern fiction and music.
• Their fascination with North African culture, mysticism, and figures like Hasan-i Sabbah served as a catalyst for this project.
• The album aims to provide a visionary experience of the Hashisheens' "inner history" by weaving together:
• • Ancient Texts: Writings by or about the Hashisheens.
• • Myths and Legends: Tales of their exploits and philosophies.
• • Historical Descriptions: Accounts from enemies, admirers, and members of the sect.
Collaborative Creation
• This ambitious project took two years to complete and is the fifth collaboration between Laswell and Sub Rosa.
• It is a multidisciplinary exploration that brings together a diverse array of artists from different backgrounds, creating a cohesive and evocative work that transcends traditional genre boundaries.
Collaborators and Contributors
• The album features an impressive lineup of artists who contribute to its rich tapestry:
• • Spoken Word Artists: William S. Burroughs, Iggy Pop, Patti Smith, Genesis P-Orridge, Hakim Bey (Peter Lamborn Wilson), Nicole Blackman, Anne Clark, Ira Cohen, Percy Howard, and Umar Bin Hassan provide readings that range from ancient writings to modern interpretations.
• • Musicians and Producers: Collaborations with Jah Wobble, Paul Schütze, Techno Animal, Nicky Skopelitis, Anton Fier, Helios Creed, and Eyeless In Gaza create atmospheric soundscapes that complement the spoken narratives.
• • Vocalists: Sussan Deyhim and Lizzy Mercier Descloux offer ethereal vocals that enhance the album's mystical aura.
Musical Style and Themes
Fusion of Genres
• The album seamlessly blends various musical styles, including ambient textures, Eastern musical elements, drum and bass rhythms, and ethereal vocals.
• The music serves as a backdrop to the spoken word performances, creating an immersive experience that transports listeners to the time of the Hashisheens.
Central Themes
• Mysticism and Esoteric Knowledge: Delving into the spiritual beliefs of the Hashisheens and their quest for enlightenment.
• Political Power and Control: Examining how Hasan-i Sabbah wielded influence through fear, devotion, and strategic manipulation.
• Reality and Illusion: Reflecting on the use of hashish and the creation of artificial paradises to inspire loyalty and obedience.
• Historical Impact: Tracing the legacy of the Hashisheens and their influence on modern secret societies and cultural movements.
Track-by-Track Analysis
1. First Reading
• Vocals: Sussan Deyhim
• Duration: 0:29
• Overview: A brief prologue setting the contemplative tone of the album. Sussan Deyhim's ethereal voice invites listeners into a mystical journey.
2. The Old Man of the Mountain
• Vocals: Genesis P-Orridge and Percy Howard
• Duration: 3:12
• Overview: Delves into the enigmatic figure of Hasan-i Sabbah, exploring his role as a spiritual leader and strategist who founded the Hashisheens.
3. The Western Lands
• Featuring: Techno Animal
• Vocals: Iggy Pop and William S. Burroughs
• Duration: 6:12
• Overview: A profound meditation on death, immortality, and the human desire to transcend physical existence, combining raw narration and distinctive voices.
4. The Spilled Cup
• Vocals: Sussan Deyhim
• Duration: 1:47
• Overview: Explores themes of loss and the ephemeral nature of life, symbolized by the "spilled cup."
5. Marco Polo's Talk
• Featuring: Nicky Skopelitis
• Vocals: Hakim Bey
• Duration: 1:43
• Overview: Narrates Marco Polo's legendary encounters with the Hashisheens, blending historical accounts with mythical elements.
6. Pilgrimage to Cairo
• Vocals: Hakim Bey
• Duration: 1:50
• Overview: Reflects on the spiritual journey as a metaphor for inner exploration, emphasizing that enlightenment is found within.
7. Freya Stark at Alamut
• Featuring: Anton Fier
• Vocals: Nicole Blackman
• Duration: 0:20
• Overview: Touches on themes of exploration and the allure of forbidden knowledge through the experiences of British explorer Freya Stark.
8. Castles
• Featuring: Anton Fier
• Vocals: Percy Howard
• Duration: 0:57
• Overview: Uses the metaphor of fortresses to delve into themes of protection and isolation.
9. Hashish Poem
• Vocals: Nicole Blackman
• Duration: 2:52
• Overview: Explores the use of hashish as a means of accessing altered states of consciousness and the search for higher understanding.
10. Sinan's Post
• Vocals: Ira Cohen
• Duration: 1:56
• Overview: Focuses on Rashid ad-Din Sinan, exploring his strategic brilliance and the mystique that surrounded him.
11. Assassinations
• Featuring: Anton Fier
• Vocals: Nicole Blackman
• Duration: 0:33
• Overview: Confronts the ethical complexities surrounding the act of assassination.
12. The Mongols Destroy Alamut
• Featuring: Paul Schütze
• Vocals: Percy Howard
• Duration: 1:14
• Overview: Recounts the fall of Alamut at the hands of the Mongols, evoking a sense of loss and impermanence.
13. The Divine Self
• Produced by: Jah Wobble
• Duration: 5:09
• Overview: An introspective exploration of the self as an embodiment of the divine, fusing world music elements with philosophical musings.
14. Morning High
• Featuring: Nicky Skopelitis
• Vocals: Lizzy Mercier Descloux and Patti Smith
• Duration: 3:03
• Overview: A poetic meditation on transformation and renewal, capturing the essence of dawn as a symbol of hope.
15. A Quick Trip to Alamut
• Featuring: Paul Schütze
• Vocals: Iggy Pop
• Duration: 3:41
• Overview: Narrates a tale centered around Hasan-i Sabbah's rise to power, reflecting on themes of deception and transformation.
16. Slogans
• Featuring: Helios Creed
• Vocals: Genesis P-Orridge
• Duration: 0:47
• Overview: Examines the power of language and propaganda, emphasizing the dangers of absolute beliefs.
17. Book of the Highest Initiation
• Featuring: Helios Creed
• Vocals: Genesis P-Orridge
• Duration: 2:41
• Overview: Delves into esoteric teachings and the liberation from conventional religious practices.
18. The Lord of the Resurrection
• Vocals: Umar Bin Hassan
• Duration: 0:52
• Overview: Reinterprets the concept of paradise, critiquing materialistic views of spiritual fulfillment.
19. Assassinations 2
• Featuring: Anton Fier
• Vocals: Nicole Blackman
• Duration: 0:52
• Overview: Explores the psyche of those who commit acts of political violence, delving into moral ambiguities.
20. Tale of the Caliph Hakem
• Produced by: Eyeless In Gaza
• Vocals: Anne Clark and Genesis P-Orridge
• Duration: 5:00
• Overview: Recounts the story of Caliph al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah, exploring themes of power, madness, and divinity.
21. The Assassins
• Vocals: Hakim Bey
• Duration: 2:05
• Overview: Provides a poetic exploration of the Hashisheens' legacy, touching on rebellion and autonomy.
22. Last Reading
• Vocals: Sussan Deyhim
• Duration: 0:37
• Overview: A reflective epilogue emphasizing personal transformation and the immediacy of enlightenment.
Production Credits
• Text Compilation: Peter Lamborn Wilson (Hakim Bey)
• Compilation and Arrangement: Bill Laswell
• Spoken Word Production and Arrangement: Janet Rienstra
• Engineering and Mixing: Mark Ferda and Hugo Scholten
• Recording Studios: 30 Hertz Studios, Ambivalent Scale Studios
• Publishing: Nation Music, Songs of Polygram International, DeConstruct Music, Nickita Scopeletis Music, Almost Loaded Music, Longitude Music, Warner Chappell Music Ltd.
Overall Themes and Concepts
Mysticism and Spirituality
• The album deeply engages with mystical traditions, particularly Sufism and Ismaili philosophies.
• It emphasizes personal spiritual experiences, inner enlightenment, and the exploration of esoteric knowledge.
Rebellion and Autonomy
• A central theme is the challenge against established authority—political, religious, or societal.
• The Hashisheens are portrayed as symbols of resistance, advocating for autonomy and self-determination.
The Nature of Truth and Reality
• The album frequently questions absolute truths and encourages listeners to consider the fluidity of reality.
• Reflects on how perceptions are shaped and the importance of personal interpretation.
The Human Condition
• Through explorations of mortality, desire, loss, and enlightenment, the album offers profound insights into universal human experiences and the quest for meaning.
Musical Composition and Production
Fusion of Styles
• Bill Laswell's production is a masterclass in blending diverse musical styles to create a cohesive and immersive experience.
• Key elements include:
• • Ambient Soundscapes: Establish atmospheric settings for each track.
• • World Music Influences: Incorporate traditional instruments and melodies, grounding the album in its cultural context.
• • Experimental Sound Design: Utilize unconventional sounds and structures to challenge listeners and evoke emotion.
Contributors and Their Impact
Vocalists and Narrators
• William S. Burroughs: Adds depth with his distinctive voice and connection to literary counterculture.
• Iggy Pop: Brings raw energy and intensity to his readings.
• Patti Smith: Infuses tracks with poetic sensitivity and emotional depth.
• Genesis P-Orridge: Offers avant-garde perspectives and explores themes of transformation.
• Sussan Deyhim: Provides ethereal vocals that enhance the mystical atmosphere.
• Nicole Blackman: Delivers powerful and introspective performances.
Musicians and Composers
• Jah Wobble: Contributes rich bass lines and integrates diverse musical traditions.
• Techno Animal: Adds industrial and experimental textures.
• Paul Schütze, Nicky Skopelitis, Eyeless In Gaza: Bring unique instrumental styles that enrich the album's sound.
Historical and Cultural Context
• The album is deeply rooted in the history of the Hashisheens and 11th-century Persia.
• It touches on:
• • Hasan-i Sabbah's Legacy: Explores his role as a leader and the myths surrounding him.
• • Alamut: Symbolizes both a physical fortress and a metaphor for inner sanctity and resistance.
• • Ismaili and Sufi Mysticism: Influences the album's philosophical and spiritual themes.
Critical Reception
• The album received acclaim for its innovative fusion of music and spoken word, as well as its deep exploration of complex historical and mystical themes.
• Critics highlighted:
• • Atmospheric Soundscapes: Laswell's mastery in creating dark, deep grooves that perfectly accompany the narratives.
• • Compelling Narratives: The writings offer profound insights into the philosophies of the Hashisheens.
• • Collaborative Excellence: The diverse array of artists contributes to a cohesive and evocative work.
Reviews
• Rick Anderson: Praised the album, noting that the music is "disturbing and perfect," and the project is "highly recommended."
• Mark Teppo: Appreciated the album's ability to transport listeners, creating an evocative atmosphere that feels like an adventure.
• Kim Alexander: Emphasized the exploration of profound themes and the integration of varied musical styles.
Conclusion
• Hashisheen: The End of Law stands as a unique and ambitious project that blends history, mysticism, music, and spoken word into an immersive artistic experience.
• Bill Laswell's vision, combined with the talents of a diverse group of collaborators, offers listeners a profound journey into the enigmatic world of the Hashisheens and their lasting impact on culture and philosophy.
• Through its seamless integration of diverse artistic contributions, the album challenges us to question our perceptions of reality, authority, and spirituality.
• It stands as a testament to the power of collaborative creativity and the enduring relevance of ancient wisdom in contemporary times.
Reflective Questions
• Rebellion and Autonomy: How does the album's portrayal of the Hashisheens relate to modern concepts of resistance and self-determination?
• Fusion of Art Forms: In what ways does the blending of music and spoken word enhance the exploration of complex themes?
• Inner Enlightenment: What insights can be gained from the album's emphasis on personal transformation and spiritual exploration?
• By contemplating these questions, listeners can deepen their engagement with the album and uncover personal meanings within its intricate layers.
Final Thoughts
• Hashisheen: The End of Law is more than an album; it is an immersive experience that defies easy categorization.
• Its fusion of historical narrative, mystical exploration, and avant-garde artistry creates a timeless work that continues to inspire and provoke thought.
• Bill Laswell's vision, brought to life by an extraordinary ensemble of contributors, offers a profound reflection on the eternal human quest for truth and meaning.
• Whether approached as a historical meditation, a philosophical inquiry, or a sonic adventure, Hashisheen: The End of Law provides a deeply rewarding experience that resonates on multiple levels.
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• Note: This analysis synthesizes the comprehensive information provided, creating a cohesive and engaging overview of Hashisheen: The End of Law.
• It integrates details about the album's concept, collaborators, musical style, themes, track analysis, production credits, critical reception, and overall impact, offering readers an in-depth understanding of this remarkable work.