Review Summary: Pls don’t neg me this is my first review
You know me, I’m always listening to old music, the older the better. That was a lie by the way, so when I do come across something old, it almost seems like from a different planet. The emotions that are evoked, and the distant history — it’s spooky. Sons of Koop especially has me amazed at hidden treasures waiting a listener. It’s a trip-hop gem worth digging up, revealing its beauty. Anywho, straight into the track-by-track.
Track two: Gloms. Yes, I’m skipping the introduction. It’s a dance number and a trip-hop song. There’s a definite bass pedal thump, a sci-fi synth, brush work on the drums, and a light psychedelic/droning effect. A very solid opener led by the charismatic singer who enjoys a little scatting amongst her singing.
Track three: Psalm. A horn is introduced. It is an unsettling, mostly ambient track. Good times are had, though the track would have worked better in the middle of the album.
Track four: Bjarne Riis. Another mostly ambient track. It includes a simple but effective drum beat and sparkly synths.
Track five: Absolute Space. Underwater or spacey synths collide with a quiet, glitchy beat. The singer sounds very pretty in this song.
Track six: Words of Tranquility. This time the drum beat has an underwater effect. Very trippy song, though it has to be heard to be understood. It is one of the highlights of the record.
Track seven: Salvation. A little trippy, a little goofy. Fun song.
Track eight: Jellyfishes. This song is pretty much what the album is about. The ethereal vibe is potent, with a light but effective drum beat. Strings and the accordion are of course included.
Track nine: Once Britten. Another odd sounding drum beat, and a good one. Pretty vocals are a given at this point.
Track 10: Hellsbells. A track that I’m sure was very cool at the time of release, but it’s rather ancient sounding now.
Review conclusion:
Sons of Koop was a pleasant listen, but not a groundbreaking one. Not enough unique rhythms are explored to keep me more than lightly engaged. That being said, nothing struck as wrong either. The album was quiet overall, but I didn’t expect a rousing experience considering it’s trip-hop. I instead had a nice, cushy listen that was relaxing. It is a trip-hop album worth checking out.
