Encompassing distant field recordings, nostalgic IDM from a bygone era, and the bewilderment of how sound can alter one’s emotions, the plethora of positive grooves on this recording are endless.
Suspenseful, punchy, and engulfing sound worlds
This second outing by Valera Morakh (aka Morakh)—released on Moscow’s Mestnost imprint—slithers about with ease while also incorporating suspenseful, punchy, and engulfing sound worlds. Each encapsulated piece, described in the liner notes as “flashes of euphoria against the backdrop of wondrous and mysterious places,” has an emotional impact that gently draws us into its intricate electronic arrangements.
Helix is an affecting album pushing the borders of breaks, bass, and braindance; simply reference “Ketra” to get the idea. Encompassing distant field recordings (ref. “Green Canyon”), nostalgic IDM from a bygone era, and the bewilderment of how sound can alter one’s emotions, the plethora of positive grooves on this recording are endless. From muted vocal treatments and intensely saturated rhythms (check the title track), Morakh carves jagged fissures through the crust of our planet, hitting tectonic plates along the way, and doesn’t hold back.
The breakbeats on Helix also constantly split apart as the album progresses. Strong melodic pulses inhabiting “Lake of Sun” and “Summer,” as well as in the crisp beat work of “Haven,” are prime examples of Morakh showcasing solid musical mastery. Not forgetting “Resist” and “Laos” that deliver roughened technoid slabs; the talented artist carefully unravels fresh soundscapes to keep us engaged.
Inspired production talent and a desire to magnetize raw energy flows, Helix shifts into uncharted terrain and is a very welcomed retreat that we’ll continue to visit as a top release for 2024. An utterly intriguing assortment that preserves the core of experimental electronics.
Helix is available on Mestnost. [Bandcamp]
