R_R_ ~ Train of Thought

An early contender for best of 2020, R_R_’s Train of Thought is the debut of Latvian composer, sound artist, and lecturer, Reinis Semēvics. Released on the always dependable Growing Bin, the album was said to be inspired by ”the rhythmic movement of water and how its rippled reflections bend our perception.” The first track “Entering” sounds off (literally with an alarm) our descent into these – at first – semi hectic ripples, and onto our eventual plunge into a series of deep floating oceanic rhythms. New elements and field recordings are introduced throughout and meet blissful electronics in hypnotic melodic harmony. Album highlight “Luminosity” feels like a deep sea exploration with its soothing drum pads and echoing and cascading synths. Other favorites include “Deleting Doubts” which takes an almost Steve Reich approach with pulsing rhythms, while penultimate tune “Step By Step” leads us down one more immersive step into euphoria before we resurface with the sun-tinged “Outro”. Train of Thought as a whole delivers in a swell of deep melody, sophisticated sound collage, and absolute aquatic bliss.

– DM

Recommended – A3 Luminosity, A5 Deleting Doubts, B3 Step By Step