Laraaji & Blues Control: Noise Meets Bliss

The latest installment of RVNG's FRKWYS series, Vol. 8, presents a distinctive musical partnership between New York's Blues Control and zither virtuoso Laraaji. This collaborative LP masterfully navigates a diverse sonic palette, moving fluidly from disco rhythms to cascading kalimba melodies, serene ambiance, and experimental gurgling noise.

Laraaji, widely recognized for his seminal ambient recording with Brian Eno, also practices deep laughter workshops, illustrating a profound connection between spiritual depth and playful mirth. Blues Control, known for their explorations in psychedelic music and sprawling soundscapes, found common ground with Laraaji's improvisational style.

Recorded over a single winter day, the four tracks on the album create a cohesive auditory experience. "Awakening Day" introduces Blues Control's signature murkiness with echoing percussion and melodic keyboards, before Laraaji's zither emerges and the track dissolves into natural sounds. "Light Ships" features Laraaji's effects-laden zither, improvisational vocals, and echoing laughter, embodying a dynamic, oceanic ebb and flow.

The collaboration effortlessly merges the distinct styles of both artists, blurring any perceived generational or genre divides. This project serves as a testament to the FRKWYS series' ongoing exploration of connections between avant-garde sound artists and New Age pioneers.