The narrative behind this bands origins suggests that they are from “an imaginary tropical island” and if you listen to their dreamy, otherworldly sonic concoctions I dare say you will find this a very easy story to believe!
Malphino are an outer-national, mystical collective of musicians and visual artist based in London. Active for about six years now, the group issued their latest release last year in the form of a 4-track EP called Sueño. I am currently working my way through their 2018 debut album Visit Malphino and, so taken by its charm, I’ve just bought myself a copy!
In order to generate the perfect imaginary tropical island theme, Malphino carefully blend an array of sounds and influences, creating their cinematic score-style sound. Fusing hypnotic cumbia rhythms, subtle digital warbling, accordion textures, ‘voodoo vapours’ and woodblock beats, this beaming sound is joyous and vibrant!
As described on their Bandcamp page, the band, “reinterprets the traditional Colombian banda. Playing organ, accordion and tuba, their sound integrates an array of percussion and rhythms from either side of the Pacific ocean with a strong emphasis on East-Asian folkloric traditions alongside the distinctive origins of Brazilian forró, 1930’s Cuban rumba, Peruvian chicha and cumbia in a myriad of styles. This heady mix of volcanic sounds is given extra potency by a fluid use of electronic sequencing, with reverb and echo effects laced into the melodic lines and vocals to recreate the dreamlike rapture of their magical island….”
Through The Arch invites you into their debut album with tantalizing mystery. Press play and it immediately feels like you have been washed ashore on this mystical island! Tropical sounds and alluring textures await and, naturally, you feel compelled to explore! I, for one, can definitely recommend an expedition through this beaming soundscape! It’s so good to get away and even better to know you can escape to this sonic haven anytime!
Listen above and check out the rest of the album below:
thelisteningpostblog.wordpress.com 