Plaster – Mainframe Re_coded (Digital Album – Textvra Records)
The Italian band Plaster began as a duo in 2008 but evolved into a solo project led by Gianclaudio Hashem Moniri after the release of their third album, “Mainframe”, in 2015 on Kvitnu. While a re-release had long been planned, it only came to fruition last year due to various delays.
“Mainframe Re_coded” features the 10 original tracks, newly mastered, alongside an eight-track bonus collection of remixes, alternative versions, and live recordings. Plaster continues to deliver a unique sonic experience, blending diverse influences. The core remains Electro, now with an explicitly Cinematic feel and a clear IDM approach. Tracks flow seamlessly, alternating between slow, immersive rhythms and harder, danceable grooves, gradually building into a dark, cohesive whole. Interspersed throughout are Ambient, Dub, and Experimental elements, enriching the soundscape and keeping listeners engaged. The remixes, including one by Franck Vigrouw, along with the live and alternative edits, add even more variety.
This Plaster album still sounds contemporary and brims with standout moments. It’s a highly recommended listen for anyone who hasn’t yet explored Plaster’s original work. (Rating:8).
Listen to “Terminal – 2025 Remaster”:
https://textvra.bandcamp.com/track/terminal-2025-remaster
I have been working for over 30 years with Side-line as the main reviewer. My taste is eclectic, uncoventional and I prefer to look for the pearls, even if the bands are completely unknown, thus staying loyal to the Side-Line philosophy of nurturing new talents.
Since you’re here …
… we have a small favour to ask. More people are reading Side-Line Magazine than ever but advertising revenues across the media are falling fast. Unlike many news organisations, we haven’t put up a paywall – we want to keep our journalism as open as we can - and we refuse to add annoying advertising. So you can see why we need to ask for your help.
Side-Line’s independent journalism takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. But we do it because we want to push the artists we like and who are equally fighting to survive.
If everyone who reads our reporting, who likes it, helps fund it, our future would be much more secure. For as little as 5 US$, you can support Side-Line Magazine – and it only takes a minute. Thank you.
The donations are safely powered by Paypal.
