Whilst putting the final touches to their imminent second artist album ‘Trialog’, HVOB (Anna Muller and Paul Wallner) have been kind enough to treat us to their ‘Asrael’ AA sided vinyl / EP. In its original form, Asrael (the album’s opening track) is a gentle yet dramatic, clave and seething guitar-driven arrangement that seizes the chink of vocal light around the half way mark. In stark contrast, The Pillow Talk remix of Asrael is a melodically sweeter whispered vocal seduction with ticklish percussion and a gently driving bassline that seduces your ear with its hot, humid breath. ‘Ghost’ sends whispery vocal shivers down your spine and The Field compound this with icy, crisp beats that crunch like fresh snow underfoot and searing synths that radiate techno heat. The snow melts and the cityscape blazes to life in a high speed, cross country instrumental train ride. It’s a stunning piece of work and a fine introduction to the album.
4 out of 5
Reviewed by Paulette
