As we draw the curtains on this week, it’s time to unveil our latest edition of ‘Between The Cracks’.. This selection is a lovely blend of diverse soundscapes crafted by artists that our worthy of your attention. So, as the week grinds to a halt, take a moment to unwind with our eclectic assortment of releases. We hope you enjoy the music as much as we enjoyed curating it for you.
Albums
Cho Co Pa Co Cho Co Quin Quin – Tradition
‘Tradition’, the audacious debut from genre-bending trio Cho Co Pa Co Cho Co Quin Quin, redefines sonic frontiers with its eclectic fusion of acid rock, electronic, lo-fi beats, trap, funk, and more across 12 transportive tracks. Highlights include the raw emotional landscapes of ‘秩父’ and ‘キューバ’, the quintessential escapist songs ‘ワタツミ’ and ‘ガンダーラ’, the boundary-pushing title track, and the cosmic allure of ‘Moon Dance’. Expertly encapsulating isolation and global connections, ‘Tradition’ pays homage to the tapestry of music while reinventing tradition through the band’s lens. Vibrant, immersive, and exploratory, this is an innovative album that solidifies Cho Co Pa Co Cho Co Quin Quin’s boundary-pushing potential.
Rafael Toral – Spectral Evolution
What an exciting convergence of two significant events in the music world! Jim O’Rourke’s Moikai label has triumphantly returned after a long hiatus of over two decades, and talented Portuguese artist Rafael Toral has decided to revisit his roots by picking up his electric guitar once again, following a decade-long deep dive into the realm of self-built modular synthesis. Threading together twelve distinct episodes, Toral showcases his immense talent for blending experimental curiosity that is still wholly accessible. Spectral Evolution is soft and serene while still being bold and adventurous. Headphones recommended.
Dave Wesley – Non-linear Characteristics
Marvellously deep downtempo dub techno from Dave Weasly. It’s the kind of sound that invites me to unwind with a smooth glass of red wine and a relaxing joint late into the night without a single worry in the world. It’s a free download from Bandcamp, but if you feel generous, pay a little.
Han Litz & The Lucid Voyages – Off-Grid
With a fusion of tranquil meditation and an exuberant sense of adventure, Dutch musicians Han Litz & Olivier Schreuder’s new album captures nature’s beauty in all its splendour. Inspired by field recordings made during Schreuder’s travels in far-off locations such as Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam, together with Thai-Dutch musician and visual artist Angkanang Pimwankum, the trio created a new-age ambient blend that evokes serene contemplation. So, press play and let Off-Grid delight your senses, calm your mind, and take you on a journey across a diversity of landscapes while sitting comfortably in your favourite armchair.
Vestbo Trio – Out of Place
Vestbo Trio’s latest release, ‘Out of Place’, is an on-the-spot, free-form improvisation journey that showcases the group’s masterful ability to conjure nostalgia and longing through intricate soundscapes. Immediately drawing listeners in with ‘Away From Home’, the 11 tracks traverse a fascinating emotional arc. Cuts like ‘497’ and ‘Peace’ reveal Vestbo’s ear for layered resonance, while ‘The Morning After’ paints a picture of contemplative tranquillity. The contrast of ‘Robots’ demonstrates the trio’s genre dexterity before segueing into a three-song saga of musical storytelling. From start to emotive finish, each meticulously arranged track contributes singular brush strokes to a tantalising project. Balancing intrigue with comfort, this shared experience invites repeated listens to unlock its auditory details and rewards further. The Paul Wilson cover artwork is as cool as the music that lies within.
Mu Quintet – Summit
Mu Quintet’s exhilarating ‘Summit’ amalgamates rich compositions and vibrant improvisation, pushing small ensemble boundaries to dynamic effect. The Leeds outfit captivates with intricate melodies and rhythms on highlights ‘Miss B’ and ‘Maya’s Mood’ while’ Diogenes Pot’ intrigues as a powerful opener, setting the avant-garde tone. The title track encapsulates the album’s essence via explosive improvisations inspired by the musical vanguard. ‘Sukha’ and ‘Faith’ showcase quintessential craftsmanship in profound, impressionistic pieces. With tender compositions, free abandon, and mainstream synthesis lauded by Jazz Journal, Mu Quintet embodies diverse stylistic expertise in a unique blend that evokes and rewards across emotional spectra. An innovative auditory exploration, ‘Summit’ stands as essential listening whether you’re a jazz aficionado or seeking refreshing sound. Props to Jazzaggression for giving this previously digital-only album a much-deserved vinyl release.
