ambient / downtempo / post rock
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On the somewhat quieter sound of the musical spectrum, we find Indian one man project Mixtaped Monk and his deeply emotional music. On 'Urban Lonesome', the project flirts with ambient, post rock and downtempo music, be it in a very minimal style. The tracks on this album are slow, atmospheric pieces of music with soundscapes, electronic percussion and a few oriental influences.
Other acts that come to mind while listening to songs like 'City Of Changes' or 'Lonesome Drifter' include Plaid and Boards Of Canada. In fact, this albums would fit right in between the works of these acts and probably some other Warp residents too. On other occasions, as in 'Futile Festivities' elements of cinematic post rock shine through, driven by gentle guitars plucks and soundscapes.
Perhaps, if there is one point of criticism to be given, it might be the somewhat sterile sound of the album. Although the tracks are quite immersive pieces of music, I still miss something. I'm not sure what it is but I think I can explain it. This project has been around since 2016 and is still in the process of careful experimentation. For now, that resulted in a splendid album, one that certainly deserves you attention. Yet, I think in a few years, Mixtaped Monk will realize that this was just the beginning and grow ever prouder of his most recent work.
The verdict? 'Urban Lonesome' is a splendid album, best to be enjoyed with a good glass of wine and a decent meal, or in a comfortable, meditative position. It shows an artist worth keeping an eye on, certainly if he decides to take his experimental efforts to a next level. Only time will tell what he comes up with in the future but I bet it's interesting enough to follow. So, check it out and judge for yourself. A talent might be blooming here...
​Serge
Other acts that come to mind while listening to songs like 'City Of Changes' or 'Lonesome Drifter' include Plaid and Boards Of Canada. In fact, this albums would fit right in between the works of these acts and probably some other Warp residents too. On other occasions, as in 'Futile Festivities' elements of cinematic post rock shine through, driven by gentle guitars plucks and soundscapes.
Perhaps, if there is one point of criticism to be given, it might be the somewhat sterile sound of the album. Although the tracks are quite immersive pieces of music, I still miss something. I'm not sure what it is but I think I can explain it. This project has been around since 2016 and is still in the process of careful experimentation. For now, that resulted in a splendid album, one that certainly deserves you attention. Yet, I think in a few years, Mixtaped Monk will realize that this was just the beginning and grow ever prouder of his most recent work.
The verdict? 'Urban Lonesome' is a splendid album, best to be enjoyed with a good glass of wine and a decent meal, or in a comfortable, meditative position. It shows an artist worth keeping an eye on, certainly if he decides to take his experimental efforts to a next level. Only time will tell what he comes up with in the future but I bet it's interesting enough to follow. So, check it out and judge for yourself. A talent might be blooming here...
​Serge
