ROBEC – THE FOREST IS TOO LOUD (Bandcamp Ltd. edition LP and CD/DL)

Released on 28^th November, we are promised restless rhythms, mesmerizing bass lines, twangy guitars and spacious synths from the Bergen-based synth wizard Marius Robech. ‘Unknown Overture’ has an eastern filmic feel to it and the synthesisers recall the works of John Michel Jarre and Vangelis. When the guitar comes in it could be Mike Oldfield you are listening to. ‘The Apanthropist’ is percussion and piano based and equally panoramic, ending in a synthesised loop. ‘Latibulate’ is also driven by piano with a nifty bass riff and soaring guitar then heavy percussion and synth line as a wall of sound is created – impressive! The music has many twists and turns and much light and shade, good ingredients indeed. The title track is also piano led and is quite laid back (at first) and filmic with waves of guitar, synth and percussion settling into an entrancing groove with a ‘symphonic’ surge at its conclusion.