Oströl – Austral Sounds
Oströl is an avid producer from Lisbon, Portugal. His album, Austral Sounds, irrepressibly explores the domains of IDM, ambience, minimal dub and ethnic music – much in line with Andy Stott and Demdike Stare. If you’re expecting a dance album, you will be heavily disappointed.
Alex Jones appropriately introduces the sick, twisted elegance of Laura Palmer Burned. This is no Twin Peaks-esque parable, though; as Jones scorns Buzz Aldrin in tandem with the twisted beats in a humorous fashion. The beats are equally unique and ostentatious; the atmosphere ominous and guileful. The sleek production continues and intensifies through the title track, Austral Sounds, an excellent post-IDM suite. The use of space throughout Ostrol’s work is gorgeous. The panning of synths is luscious and accompanied by a rather peart middle eastern instrumental. The execution of the aberrant techno section is simultaneously resplendent and discomforting. The rest of the album is sadly not as strong. Sand Eyed further explores the baron, empty wasteland of post-IDM, beautifully accompanied by shifting frequencies once again. Its composition often feels somewhat undeveloped, though; much like the rest of the album. Burning Feather meticulously builds upon its ambience with layers that seamlessly weave in and out, though the song never justifies its length and is missing a high-point. Hatchet Dance is an inoffensive ending to the album, though somewhat pales in comparison to the previous tracks. The off-beat IDM is delightful but ends abruptly. These songs are also missing their own personality and are tough to discern from their influences.
Austral Sounds is, at times, an enjoyable listen. Its framework is incredibly unique and its polish undeniable. Expect to be confused, dazzled and impressed by the technical brilliance of Oströl’s design. Overall the album feels a little too baron; only the pioneers could get away with it. Moreover, many ideas have been explored before. The album has an excellent foundation, though; it just feels much too undeveloped and unfinished. Thankfully Oströl irrefutably has his own style; something many DJ’s in the scene lack. With more refinement, I’m sure he could create something masterful.
Above Average
Listen to it here:
Oströl – Austral Sounds
