Electronic varietals shimmy and segue through lush piano keys, and classic late 90’s-era IDM reflections. Fans of Ocoeur, Ulrich Schnauss and Kettel will revel in the mountainous peaks and softened machine grooves.
UK’s Dan McRae (aka Thin Films) reveals Mountains and Machines, where electronic varietals shimmy and segue through lush piano keys, and classic late 90’s-era IDM reflections. An album such as this doesn’t come around too often—have a listen to a couple of teaser singles he did in 2016—McRae is an accomplished musician in his own right, displaying delicate melodious snapshots with ease (ie. “Snowfall on Brutalist Architecture” and “Komorebi – Sunlight Through Trees.”)
Instrumental and with a flare for subdued guitar strings, Thin Films elicits a digital-to-analog smorgasbord. The synaptic pulse of the title track is infectious and imploding with synth fractals, brittle breakbeats and harmonic rhythm. “Mantis” is by far a personal favorite, its sublime translucent ambience veers through emotional spheres, chiming bells and synthesizer finesse. Also in the spotlight is the gritty, soundtrack focus on “Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test” where a myriad of broken industrial percussion and acidic tones expand. But just as the arching mood maneuvers through chiseled patchwork, the relaxed ivory keys of “Momentary Freedom” carries with it a windswept instrument not unlike what Boards of Canada often tether so well during their interludes. This truly give the album its rich and magnetic charm.
Mountains and Machines is a refined and focused album that ventures’ into nostalgic electronic valleys and meandering streams. Fans of Ocoeur, Ulrich Schnauss and Kettel will revel in the mountainous peaks and softened machine grooves.
Mountains and Machines is available on Thin Recordings.
