While not exactly minimal, (as the songs sound quite large) the tracks are somewhat stripped back and given lots of breathing room within themselves, utilizing a less is more approach with great effect.
The right amount of elements in play at any given moment
Swedish producer Christopher Landin (aka Lav) established his presence in the ambient / techno underground scene releasing several singles and EP’s as well as collaborative works with the prolific Ludvig Cimbrelius (aka Purl) on A Strangely Isolated Place. Their breathtaking 2017 album A State of Becoming (A Strangely Isolated Place) marked Lav’s first full-length release, and featured euphoric field recordings intertwined with carefully measured beats and melancholy piano melodies. With A New Landscape—his latest proper solo record for Past Inside the Present—this formula can still be heard throughout, yet perhaps with more emphasis placed on rhythm and classic electronic drum machines.
The opening track “Human Disturbances” is a stunning example of how Lav’s organic field recordings can blend with warm basslines and crisp, steady beat work in perfect harmony. It’s easy to get lost in the following track “Under the Microscope,” which is more of a straight forward dub techno affair. Serene atmospheres evolve throughout the song, which is held together by booming 808 kick drum and hi-hats that will tickle your tweeters. “Collaborative Survival” employs cyclic percussion arrangements, and sporadic instances of background effects with delay and reverb, engaging the listener with a high level of sonic detail. The album continues with “Advanced State of Decay.” Fading in slowly, each element builds upon each other creating a sense of tension with ominous pads, and low end rumble which rests comfortably underneath a skeletal techno pulse. On “Myxomycetes” Lav slows things down a bit, with a lower tempo and scattered beats that form an intelligent structure in which the downbeat and time signature are seemingly a mystery. More classic drum machine sounds can be found on the tranquil “Art of Noticing” which also has a beautiful bird song deep in the background of the mix.
One exceptional thing that stands out about this A New Landscape is that the mixes are never overly crowded with frequencies. There are always just the right amount of elements in play at any given moment. While not exactly minimal, (as the songs sound quite large) the tracks are somewhat stripped back and given lots of breathing room within themselves, utilizing a less is more approach with great effect. The songs are structured in such a way that they could be enjoyed with intent introspective listening, or even as a backdrop for your daily activities. Highly recommended for cool autumn days with the windows open, and a cup of your favorite tea or coffee. Grab a copy today from Past Inside the Present in a multitude of different vinyl choices including black, transparent marigold, or even a mystery color package.
A New Landscape is available on Past Inside The Present. [Bandcamp]
