Sphyxion – 2 (CD Album – Zoharum)
Genre/Influences: Experimental, minimal-electronics, IDM, electro-ambient.
Background/Info: Sphyxion is driven by the French brothers Frédéric and Olivier Charlot. You might know their main project Maninkari, devoted to ritual/industrial music. They’re now back on track unleashing the second work of Sphyxion.
Content: Sphyxion sounds more into minimal-electronics, but is still characterized by dark sound atmospheres. “2” features intriguing passages accomplished with great sound treatments and carried by a slow cadence. The other side of the album reveals a more ambient approach, which is sometimes joined by ritual elements. Notice by the way the tracks remained untitled.
+ + + : The minimal electro side is quite fascinating. Sphyxion there shows a great taste for electronic sounds and arrangements. The sound is minimal, but the procedure reveals a more sophisticated work. The opening cut is a cool track illustrating this sound. I also like the dark spheres hanging over the songs. It injects an anguishing flavor to the work.
– – – : A few more ambient-driven cuts aren’t exactly the most accomplished ones.
Conclusion: I think that next to Maninkari, Sphyxion also is an interesting exposure from the brothers Charlot. “2” reveals a mix of sound intelligence and obscure sonic moods.
Best songs: “1”, “2”, “10”, “6”.
Rate: (7).
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