Ummagma
Kiev Remixes
Emerald & Doreen Recordings
31 October 2014
RIYL: Stereolab, Curve, Cocteau Twins, Broadcast, Everything But The Girl, Dubstar
Kiev maybe the epicenter of massive civil unrest at the moment, but it is also the name of Ummagma’s new release, and ultimately a message of hope. The two-time Alternative Eurovision winners rise above the decay and mayhem encountered in Ukraine to embrace diversity and beauty, while taking their music in new directions.
Ummagma formed in Moscow in 2003 with Canadian Shauna McLarnon and Ukrainian Alexx Kretov consistently writing and recording music whilst living between Ukraine and Canada. Shauna’s delicate airy gossamer-like vocals hold glimmers of Cocteau Twins, Stereolab, The Sundays, Curve, Lush, and Slowdive. Alexx’s guitar, vocals, synths, beats and programming create cinematic soundscapes with elements of Pink Floyd, Peter Gabriel, Bill Nelson and Brian Eno, enabling the listener to soar above the music.
Despite heavy turmoil in Ukraine, Ummagma look forward to a brighter future for Eastern Europe. In ‘Kiev’, this Canadian-Ukrainian team celebrates their freedoms, exploring the root of today’s problems to create beauty in the face of hostility. The outcome shows that what is the end for one person may be the start for another. Even more importantly, it shows that beauty can blossom even in the midst of ugliness.
The duo has received support from Robin Guthrie (Cocteau Twins) and Malcolm Holmes (OMD), who have remixed tracks for forthcoming release.
Since 2012, Statickman has been extraordinarily prolific, releasing music through 8 different record labels, including Emerald & Doreen Recordings. This includes 2 LPs, 10 EPs and many remixes, the most notable one being for legendary nu-disco electro pioneer Alexander Robotnick.
No Comments