Though the man behind Silent Land Time Machine keeps the project slightly mysterious, the music he produces lands squarely in the familiar. Eerie synths, weeping viola, violin, guitar, accordion, piano (and dozens of other instruments) fit neatly together creating tightly wound but ethereal compositions.
&Hop Still earns references to
A Silver Mt. Zion and Do Make Say Think -- fairly -- but for us its most reminiscent of
Scenic's Aquatica. From track one, "Everything Goes to Shit", the earthy viola and warm guitars bring an organic but delicate vibe to the table. Throughout the record, this relationship between pure composition and modern noise matures, eventually giving rise to a greater notion of harmony. Since the project is the work of one man, many instruments and home recording devices, the modern is ultimately at the forefront. Found noise, static and loops punctuate traditional piano, guitar and wordless choruses, making each song a unique testament to the modern songwriter's devotion to the real. We hear it's called chamber folk, and we're hooked.
The album is released between two labels, Time-Lag and Indian Queen, and the packaging is gorgeous. The CDs are tri-fold, double sided, offset printed cover with woven Japanese inner sleeves. Vinyl comes 180 gram, limited, numbered edition of 300 copies (sold out last we checked). You never know what you might find at the show tonight, though, as we expect the quiet genius behind this project will have materials for sale. Head down to Club 1808 tonight to catch Silent Land Time Machine's homecoming show after a short tour and stay to check out Prince Rama of Ayodhya, Silver Pines, Roman Candle and Spiked Punch.
Silent Land Time Machine [MySpace] [@ Indian Queen]
Silver Pines [MySpace]
Prince Rama of Ayodhya [MySpace]
Club 1808 [MySpace]
