Baldruin
Portal
Wounded Knife Records (2015)
Baldruin, the brainchild of Johannes Schebler, is wondering through the psychic domains of ambient music. Even though the project is relatively new, Schebler has put out a number of releases, various split albums and cassettes. However, Portal is the debut of Baldruin in the vinyl domain, released through Wounded Knife Records. What attracts Baldruin to the ambient domain so much is their topographical outlook in the construction of atmospheres, as well as their push towards moments of cinematic quality, bounding together feverish auras and mystical themes.The heavy veil of the ambiance lures you into Portal from the beginning of the album, as the reverse reverb in “Im Verlies” sets the beat while the noisy synths on the background craft with precision the foundation of the track. The inclusion of samples aids in getting the message across, with chain-like sounds echoing through the dark corridors of Portal. There are moments when the approach takes on a more mysterious tone, as is the case with “Night Vision,” mainly originating from its bass line, and “Wustensturm,” granting the tracks a dark but at the same time cool aura. However, at other times Baldruin applies more pressure, as is the case with the increased … Read more
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