l.pierre - touchpool
second album from aidan moffats spin off project - having been previously a little more lucky than on this latest instalment, however that was in name only, as there is nothing remotely unlucky in this springtime soundtrack. with the rest of his time as half of arab strab it's clear that aidan has a need for the solo thing as this album is a very lovely way to spend 40 or so minutes packed with interesting sounds, emotions and humour all wrapped in a saucy cover that will shock your mum.
if you were quick enough to grab the split 7" release of 'total horizontal' then you will know what the tracks sound like : large swollen orchestrations, string sections, delicate drum loops, scratchy piano samples, all blended with real time instrumentation of acoustic guitars, tijuana brass, and the odd twanged or slide guitar. for best example of all the above check out the stylistic nod in the direction of an obvious influence in the brilliantly titled 'jim dodge dines at the penguin cafe'.
never one to break out a sweat, aidan has crafted a beautifully cohesive album with its consistent atmospheres and rich sound which is both calming and laidback to the point of curing insomnia, but with some melodies that can still get under the skin both disorientating and haunting the listener ( check 'fan-dance' for eerie violin sample) makes the experience a very welcome pleasure. avoid the mass marketing of coffee table romantic ambience and plump up your readies for the real deal.
having sorted out an album of this quality, i would say aidan is still, a very lucky man.