((Konntinent)) - All Lines Lead In
[Serein]

For those interested in delving into the world of free netlabel music, the UK-based imprint Serein should be your first port of call. Issuing music revolving around the experimental ambient genre, artists as notable as Deaf Center’s Otto Totland feature prominently on Serein’s back catalogue.

The latest from this netlabel comes in the form of ((Konntinent))’s cinematic electro-acoustic movements. The work of London-based Antony J Harrison, his compositions have been developing under the radar for far too long. Displaying a natural talent, much like Tobias Lilja and Ben Frost, “All Lines Lead In” drags the listener right into ((Konntinent))’s world, almost smothering them towards the heartbeat of the music.

If Brian Eno can christen his work as “Music for Airports”, perhaps ((Konntinent)) should consider labeling this 4-track release as “Music for Dark and Desolate Landscapes”. Each composition here is notable for the way they can all evoke images of forgotten cities full of degradation and ruins.

“Grasp of Math” immediately reels you in with foreboding, cinematic synths that are soon offset by distant air raid sirens. Developing ominously, grainy images of deserted settlements will flicker across your mind as the fractured vocal undercurrents come across like ghosts attempting to deliver a chilling message from deep beneath the surface.

“All Lines Lead In” itself, may open like Kraftwerk’s “Radioactivity”, but forgoes the calibrated beats those Germans like, preferring instead to develop a lulling passage of softly textured guitar braided with sound imperfections that resemble distant wind and storm sounds. Such a piece points to influences within the atmospheric post-rock realm and certainly rivals the compelling nature of acts like Labradford and The For Carnation.

“Nasse”, meanwhile, combines more dramatic synths, this time with ruptured chimes, creating an atmosphere that is totally jarring yet inherently intimate. The chimes are not mixed to the front, yet the listener will be aware of their impact, as they contrast with the malefic synth work. It reminds of Radiohead’s “Optimistic”, not in style or sound, but in its arrangement.

This is a compelling release, despite its relatively short duration. Harrison’s compositions are sparse yet intricately layered. They move in a creeping manner, creating a degraded sound that drips with equal parts melancholy and claustrophobia. The lulling “3 of 8 of 4” represents his work perfectly. The optimistic synth progression is counteracted by murmurs of tension that ambiguously puts you at ease, while leaving an impression of trepidation. Ultimately it’s Harrison’s knack of knotting such contrasts that makes “All Lines Lead In” such a powerful experience.

Next up for ((Konntinent)) is a highly anticipated collaboration with GP~00. For now though, this netlabel release opens a portal to his quietly fascinating world. Download it for free here.

Track Listing:

1. Grasp of Math
2. 3 of 8 of 4
3. Nasse
4. All Lines Lead In