Llyr
Biome
Mesh
RECOMMENDED
The brilliantly high concept debut album from Berlin-based producer, Gareth Williams’ Llyr project. Described as an artist who makes music and sonic ecosystems, Llyr’s debut is an exploration of natural beauty and human interference. Constructed using a vast collection of field recordings that the producer made across the rainforests of Borneo, the record comes in two parts. The first part represents untouched nature and is made entirely from Llyr’s rainforest recordings, which are painstakingly formed without the use of drum machines, samples or synths. Bird call, monkey sounds, frogs singing, water dripping, gentle breezes and peacefully shuffling branches are at the centre of textural, ambient compositions that feel meditative and contented. The second part, exploring the impact humans have on nature, introduces synthetic elements and production techniques to the natural sounds, building a more chaotic, intense and unpredictable soundscape. Rhythms break up the natural order, synths over-power the natural surroundings and a sense of threat ensues. Biome forces us to reflect on and consider our own impact on the planet. But not just an important conversation on environmental conservationism, Biome has also charted an engaging and forward-thinking sense of musicality and pleasure.