These are the images that are evoked whilst listening to Night Music by French electronic artist Etienne Jaumet. Whether it is the arpeggiating synth chords or the dark syncopated instruments, you’ll feel like you’re hearing the soundtrack to a dystopian science fiction film provided by the likes of Brian Eno or Kraftwerk. Listening to the retro analogue synthesisers, you may feel like you’re being transported back in time to the 70’s underground art movement of electronic music. The unnatural sounding saxophones in songs such as the 20 minute long For Falling Asleep add a sense of cosmopolitan to the experience whereas the ghoulish whaling will sends chills down your spine.
The constant bouncing deep keys in Mental Vortex take you into a trance like state. You’ll also feel a sense of urgent breakdown with the sinister sounding strings in Through the Strata. However, there are points throughout the release that feel like they go on for just too long. Opening track For Falling Asleep plays the same chord throughout. There are other parts added to it but the chord just drowns them out and it feels like nothing really develops till nine minutes through the song.
The record is definitely a nod to many electronic musicians of the past in many respects. From its space like instrumentation, syncopated light drum patterns and its hypnotic main lines, Night Music fits in with everyday listening, soundtracking or just an easy listening experience.
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Good review Alex!
J’agree.