Slow Riot for New Zero Kanada is the only EP by Godspeed You! Black Emperor (GY!BE), released in 1999. Recorded at The Gas Station studio in Toronto, the EP deepens the band’s experimental post-rock sound, solidifying its atmospheric and intense musical structure.
The EP consists of two long tracks, each with distinct themes and narratives. "Moya" is a reference to band member Mike Moya and is inspired by Henryk Górecki’s Symphony No. 3. "Blaise Bailey Finnegan III" features monologues from an individual identifying himself as Blaise Bailey Finnegan III; these monologues include excerpts from the lyrics of Iron Maiden’s "Virus."
The EP’s cover art features the Hebrew phrase "תֹ֙הוּ֙ וָבֹ֔הוּ" (Tohu VaVohu), meaning “formless and void,” which appears in Genesis 1:2 and Jeremiah 4:23. Additionally, the inner sleeve presents the verses Jeremiah 4:23-27 in both Hebrew and English. On the back cover, there is a diagram in Italian illustrating the construction of a Molotov cocktail.
On the vinyl edition, side A ("Moya") is designed to be played at 45 RPM, while side B ("Blaise Bailey Finnegan III") plays at 33⅓ RPM.
Album Line-Up
The line-up for this EP showcases the instrumental richness and creative depth of the band. The innovative combination of acoustic and electronic elements contributes to the dramatic structure of the tracks.
- Efrim Menuck – Guitar, keyboard
- Mike Moya – Guitar
- Mauro Pezzente – Bass guitar
- Thierry Amar – Bass guitar, double bass
- David Bryant – Guitar, tape loops
- Sophie Trudeau – Violin
- Norsola Johnson – Cello
- Aidan Girt – Drums, percussion
- Bruce Cawdron – Drums, percussion, glockenspiel
Tracklist
This EP consists of two extended tracks, each offering its own narrative. The pieces feature atmospheric arrangements and experimental elements, taking listeners on an emotional journey.
- Moya – (10:51): This track exemplifies the band’s cinematic style, offering a powerful and emotional opening.
- Blaise Bailey Finnegan III – (17:45): Featuring monologues, atmospheric soundscapes, and melancholic arrangements, this track delivers an intense experience. It blends poetic and experimental elements seamlessly.
