Gaze At The Raisin. The Slow Clock

Is it three years already since 'Interpretative Dancing'? Time flies when life happens and often is fun. A new The Slow Clock album is always something to look forward to. Harmen Kuiper's home project, a modern form of lo-fi, i.e. the concept of recording DIY at home with a far better sound, has a fifth iteration and once again takes me through a whole range of styles, emotions and voices. Once again he works with singer-songwriter Amarins Romkema who assists on co- and background vocals, making the album even more varied in sound.

With Gaze At The Raisin, a pointer to raisin therapy no less, The Slow Clock presents itself as an alternative pop band. No one loving modern acts like Raye or Olivia Rodrigo will recognise the pop in this music, yet it is there. Built up from the rhythm of a drum computer, different kind of songs are presented. Some can be compared to the likes of, here they are once again, Pickle Darling and Carol Cleveland Sings, others have a more pop feel as soon as more estranging elements are left behind in the recording bedroom.

Things on this album start with 1960s (psychedelic) pop. Kuiper is an obvious fan of psychedelic pop tracks of the age. He plays elements from this music over the electronic rhythms. He may turn them inside out and/or upside down, connaisseurs like me recognise these elements immediately. The next level The Slow Clock adds is a more alternative feel. One that makes a pop tune less recognisable. Treat a voice a little electronically, use notes that will make the listener listen again to truly understand what is happening here (or turn them off immediately), bring in electronics. The result is songs that do not bring instant satisfaction but are far more fun to listen to.

At the same time it is clear that a lot of work went into the arrangements of the songs. They all work, have surprising elements or turns and satisfy in the end. Melodies and counter melodies can be found. Elements that usually are not associated with lo-fi music. A laptop and a recording programme offer infinite options just like the most expensive recording studios do. Harmen Kuiper uses all the options modern technique offers him, successfully.

I will refrain from singling out individual songs. It is not so relevant if one songs has a great guitar riff or has a corny synth sound and another seems inspired by Personal Trainer, etc. What the main message is, that Gaze At The Raisin has this pop feel that makes me feel good, while listening to the album. That message should be enough to make you take a listen right now. Too bad though that The Slow Clock only play live shows in Los Angeles.

Wout de Natris - van der Borght

 

You can listen to and order Gaze At The Raisin here:

https://chinup.bandcamp.com/album/gaze-at-the-raisin