Artist: Theodor Bastard
Title: Oikoumene
Genre: Experimental
Release Date: 27th September 2013
Label: Danse Macabre
Review Flash
Confusing and confounding critics since 1996, the delightfully named THEODOR BASTARD create music that stubbornly refuses to be categorised. Ambient, Folk, World Music, Darkwave? A bit of everything gets chucked in. Indian influences can be heard on the gorgeous 'Takaya Mija' and 'Tapachula' is a lilting dream-like meditation. But it's hard not to laugh at times as the “idiosyncratic” language employed on 'Benga' and 'Farias' detracts from the DEAD CAN DANCE tribal rhythms and experimentation. When it all comes together, as on the title track, the strange, quirky world that THEODOR BASTARD inhabit seems like an awesome place to explore. But there are times when it's over self-indulgent and maddeningly obtuse.
Conclusion: Approach with caution, but worth investigating.
Rating: 7 / 10
