Merging post-rock and
electronic music in a manner that reminds me ofwork by Tortoise
and Andrew Coleman (Animals on Wheels), Swiss
innovator Vincent Verselle has concocted an engaging and
expansive record with Dandelions. Given the tenuous nature of
the self-released album, I wasn't certain what to expect from this
homemade affair; fortunately, Verselle aka Seychal-Mills has
designed a very listener-friendly album here.
Dandelions,
though a tad understated, is a thoroughly melodious record. Verselle
layers lush tunes over Tortoise-esque percussion and bass, evoking
vivid atmospheres. The songs themselves employ lots of clean
guitars and synths, adding samples for melody and texture.
"Permafrost" is a prime example of Seychal-Mills at his best; it
sets a pretty melody over a relaxed rhythm section, reaching pure
bliss when the radiant, strummed guitar kicks in. Other splendid
moments include "Weathervane" and its sweet, winsome melody, and the
innovative rhythms of infectious "Montage."
Dandelions' main
drawback - one that is commonly seen with post-rock releases - is
that its repetitious, instrumental tracks have the propensity to
wade gradually into the background of the listener's mind. Verselle's compositions are so seamless that they serve as excellent
mood-setters, somewhat in the vein of professional neo-lounge
artists. With that said, Dandelions has a lot more to
recommend it than your typical "chillout" release, and Seychal-Mills'
music is intrinsically more interesting than your average Quango
compilation. As a result, one is encouraged to
pay close attention to the nuances of these compositions; the
attentive listener will inevitably be rewarded.
