an intoxicating fusion of euphoric electronic-grooves and otherworldly vocals...
Soma delivers the kind of sensory stimulation that persists long after the beats subside.
Soma, as it is best remembered through Huxley’s timeless Brave New World, is the hallucinogenic psychoactive drug implemented to defer any momentary bouts of dissatisfaction. Lesser known is its alternate usage in the Rigveda, a collection of Sanskrit Hymns, in which Soma refers to an ancient Indian “elixir of immortality” or “drink of the Gods.”
Words: Greta Kite-Gilmour | Milk Magazine
It’s also the name of the latest EP released by experimental collective Audio Mainline, recorded in Phnom Penh; a fitting title for what is an intoxicating fusion of euphoric electronic grooves and otherworldly vocals. Like its BNW namesake, the escapism it offers is short-lived, comprising a mere five tracks. Akin to its Rigveda allusion, however, Soma delivers the kind of sensory stimulation and vitality that persists long after the last beats subside.Ghostly chanting heralds the beginning of an ethereal journey on opener Elements. Whether this is to evolve into a pleasant dream or an unsettling nightmare is not immediately clear. However, as the haunting call transforms into silky smooth lyrics and a steady beat drops, the soundscape reveals itself to be nothing but soothing and friendly; one that entices further exploration.
Warped guitars and ambient synth melt into a down-tempo bass line, forming the liquid backdrop for Planet Sun. You’d be forgiven for thinking its hypnotic lyrics were of Indian or Middle-Eastern origin, particularly alongside the track’s Arabian-inspired groove. According to producer Hal FX, however, the effect was created by recording and reversing the rich vocals of singer Jenna Holiday, achieving a sound that is equally unfamiliar and completely comforting.If ever there existed an intergalactic lounge bar, Evolving would be spinning on the decks. Spaced out synth and digital bleeps dance with a mesmerising vocal sample taken from an ancient Sanskrit vocal mantra.Slow-burning Underwater sees us free fall from outer space to the depths of the ocean. Cascading piano punctuates the initially soundless vacuum, patiently building to a crescendo of crashing cymbals and morphed guitar.
Warped guitars and ambient synth melt into a down-tempo bass line, forming the liquid backdrop for Planet Sun. You’d be forgiven for thinking its hypnotic lyrics were of Indian or Middle-Eastern origin, particularly alongside the track’s Arabian-inspired groove. According to producer Hal FX, however, the effect was created by recording and reversing the rich vocals of singer Jenna Holiday, achieving a sound that is equally unfamiliar and completely comforting.If ever there existed an intergalactic lounge bar, Evolving would be spinning on the decks. Spaced out synth and digital bleeps dance with a mesmerising vocal sample taken from an ancient Sanskrit vocal mantra.Slow-burning Underwater sees us free fall from outer space to the depths of the ocean. Cascading piano punctuates the initially soundless vacuum, patiently building to a crescendo of crashing cymbals and morphed guitar.
Inspired by the monsoon season in Asia, every beat of the eponymous Soma oozes the languid charm of its muse. Samples of thunderclaps and breathy vocals intermingle with rippling harp and guitar, perfectly encapsulating the humble beauty and allure of wet season in the tropics.
Soma epitomises all of the positive qualities implied by both its namesakes, with none of the negative side effects. At once pacifying and stimulating, Soma is an altogether entrancing experience that delivers much more than an injection of ephemeral bliss. Best enjoyed with sound-cancelling headphones on a really cushy pillow.
Soma is available now – watch the video, buy the release
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