Awake and Pretty Much Sober by Violents is one of my most recent discoveries and the strange tension between cool, icy indifference and carefully cultivated warmth has got me completely hooked. Jeremy Larson of Violents has a unique approach to songmaking, composing and executing the electronic and instrumental of each song, and partnering with a different female vocalist to complete each album. Each songstress is an established musician in her own right and creates something unique with Larson, keeping the music from ever becoming dull or repetitive. Two Animals, released in 2015, featured Olga Yagolnikov of Kye Kye. The subtleties of Yagolnikov's voice coupled with Larson's multi instrumental, roomy approach to composition is equal parts emotionally stirring and easy listening. Awake and Pretty Much Sober is a bolder offering, driven by Monica Martin's uniquely gentle groove.
Each song is developed with subtle intricacy and a beautiful variety of instrumentation, both electronic and live. Unraveling and Equal Powers are my two favourite tracks on the album. Unraveling's steady rhythm ebbs and flows with the subtle intricacies of the instrumental. Although there are many elements at play, they are put together in such a way that the result feels seamless and synthesised. Equal Powers has a big, iconic sound, featuring strings, trumpets and vocal textures in the opening bars, providing a lush, layered environment for the depths of Martin's icy vocal. It is an exceptionally intricate piece and equally immersive to the listener. Hue features processed arpeggiated sounds that bring to mind James Blake, appearing with the appropriate moderation to leave the listener wanting more. Line Lie has the rhythm and shape of a catchy pop song, with the depth of Martin's vocal and the fresh instrumental development setting the song apart as something unique and haunting. The title track shows Martin's voice to have a beautiful vulnerability as she executes the vocal with a greater sensitivity and gentleness. It is also the most dance-ready track on the album, with enough complexity to keep us listening in the day time. The album is varied, with each song feeling original and thoughtful in its composition and execution. Violents and Monica Martin have created something unique and well worth listening to. A smooth blend of sounds and textures that's easy on the ears and intricately layered to engage the interest of its listeners. I love that I notice something new on each listen, and that keeps me coming back to the album. I'm confident it will have a similar effect on you.
