seven

this new release from vromb runs for 40 minutes and for the most part could be perceived as a continuation of rhythmic ideas explored on “emission pilote.” I have always admired vromb for creating long, slowly building, elaborate soundscapes; the distinct sound of the band consists of various analog frequencies and noises overlayed with persistent percussion.

the disk opens with stripped-down cold rhythms of “animation.” regular drops of heavier beat, and fast-paced minimal pulsating percussion touches bring it closer to the techno world. it is so fascinating to follow this slowly evolving track, while it’s gaining and losing sound elements, slowing down half way through into bleak, cold, barely structured atmospheric intermission filled with hushed pulses, shifts of modulated frequencies, hisses and echoing sparse drops of percussion.

without interruption in the atmosphere the album moves on to the second track. the beat slowly seeps in, finding its way to the listener through the waves of slowly shifting static. “repetition” is mesmerizing and strikingly elegant in its simplicity and distant, aloof atmosphere. a few times you even hear what appears to be a string on the background, emerging from the cold waves wailing noises, strange mechanized sounds, long frequencies. at times the main percussion line would be the only rhythmic force supporting the track, and at times it would be joined by heavier, stronger beats.

the first block of the cd closes by more subtle bubbling echoing noises of “inversion.” all three first tracks work together, presenting a solid, varied soundscape that should be perceived only in its entirety.

“interlude" lightens things up a bit with a mysterious ambient piece with sliding, resonating frequencies and pleasantly cold ambient overtones; touches of small noises. and finally “carnaval” steps in confidently with an array of bouncing percussion; it goes through a variety of atmospheres, becoming almost playful at times.

at this point I would call vromb’s style a mix of refined analog ambient and stripped-down, minimal technoid percussion. it requires a certain mindset, your undivided attention, your patience and ability to follow the whole track (or rather the whole album, since it flows and works as a single whole) from start to finish. this is definitely an experience for an eclectic, prepared listener with a set of good audio equipment on hand.