Labradford - Mi Media Naranja (CD 1997)

Labradford have a knack of making records that sound insubstantial at first but with repeated listens reveal their subtle beauty; the lovely ‘Mi Media Naranja’, is no exception.

Coming from somewhere between contemplative post-rock and musical minimalism the band craft their own soundcapes, mostly of echoing guitars where every note reverberates against a background of minimal percussion and organ. The effect is relaxing and hypnotic, but there is sufficient variety and quality on ‘Mi Media Naranja’ to keep you interested throughout.

The first two tracks, with their gentle strings and percussion, are reminiscent of Godspeed’s quieter moments; as the album progresses stronger organ sounds provide the melodic threads. Spoken word samples appear in the mix and even some whispered vocals which by comparison make Brian McMahan of Slint sound like Steven Tyler!

The final track is truly glorious, its barely-there melody strengthens with repeated listens and gives a nod towards the music you will find on their later CD, ‘Fixed Context’.

The band’s music is quite addictive; it is very easy to press ‘play’ again as soon as the CD has finished. Lovely stuff.