The duo’s signature chilling ambience, sharp percussion elements, and low end rumble are undeniably present—but perhaps with some surprisingly refreshing compositions that deviate from their previous output.
Equal parts electronic and organic
Just in time for the Winter months, the reclusive Loess return with Totems—their latest record for n5MD. Much like 2017’s Pocosin (also released on n5MD) the duo’s signature chilling ambience, sharp percussion elements, and low end rumble are undeniably present—but perhaps with some surprisingly refreshing compositions that deviate from their previous output.
The 8-minute opener “blaen” utilizes Loess’ familiar palette of fleeting soundscapes and downtempo rhythms which fade away into oblivion, allowing the final minutes of ominous and wavering pads to hover along all on their own. The more minimalist “faks” wastes little time before a clinical head-nodding beat establishes itself. Merged with frigid melodies the tracks have lots of breathing room, allowing each piece of the mix to radiate. Tracks like “torden” and “bentalls” have the recognizable sonic formula that can be heard on Loess’ previous albums like 2006’s Wind and Water but with a much more modern touch. “wellen” is comprised mainly of glitchy drums and deep evolving melodic layers, but with loads of hidden detail within. The album concludes with “felsic” which is perhaps the most curious and mystical of all the songs on this record. Deep kick thuds, and razor sharp clicks come together to form a loose groove while chorded pads and broken arpeggios drift on.
Equal parts electronic and organic—Totems weaves its way through visceral territory, hearkening back to their older works, while simultaneously pushing things forward utilizing new techniques. Though Loess has had somewhat sporadic output over the last 20 years, what we do know is that the focus is quality over quantity with this electronic duo—and I for one hope we continue to hear more from Loess in years to come.
Totems is available on n5MD. [Bandcamp | Website]
