Italian project CUMINO was formed in 2010 by Luca Vicenzi and Hellzapop, two like-minded instrumentalists and composers from rather different musical backgrounds. The duo describe their music as “a journey into a musical landscape made of silences, guitar melodies and electronic sounds”, and so far this has lead them to the production of the full length debut album “Tomorrow in the Battle Think of Me” (and later on an EP called “Inner Voice”).
On this initial foray into the world of recording artists for this project we’re presented with a rather innovative musical landscape. The dominating aspect, if this can actually be used within this particular context, are slow, gently resonating guitar details. Single notes and slowly plucked motifs carefully echoing and resonating in a manner that explores this presence rather thoroughly. Supplementing this fragile motif we have an array of electronic sounds. Droning noisescapes, textured hovering presences, toned down surging single or multiple synth motifs. Rarely as an ever-present feature, but as elements that come and go as these soundscapes ebb and flow in intensity. In the coming and going department we also have rhythms, eerie and subtly distorted or in unusual, illogical patterns more often than not. On occasion toned down saxophone details are added to the proceedings, and more sparingly we’re also treated to the rather familiar presence of nervously, pace-filled and swirling light toned guitars adding a distinct and classic post rock element to the proceedings. This latter aspect is very much toned down and given a subservient placement in the arrangements whenever it’s utilized however, as a familiar detail for fans of post rock in an otherwise strange musical universe.
Because this is a strange album. One that has a melancholic atmosphere throughout, placed within a context that inspired thoughts of an alien presence and a downright unreal part of reality. Never in a threatening manner I might add. The feeling of something being out of tune with reality as well as out of sight is just about ever-present, but in a manner that inspires curiosity rather than fear or nervousness. An intriguing yet somewhat unnerving experience.
By and large I suspect Cumino is a band that will find it’s fans amongst post rock fans first and foremost. The recurring use of textured electronic motifs and the ever-present carefully resonating and echoing guitar details both gives rise to this association, and while this isn’t your typical post rock at least those with a taste for bands of this kind opting for an innovative approach should fond this production a satisfying overall experience.
My rating: 74/100
