Challenge Records [Release date 19.11.21] www.eskinamusic.com
Has the music world gone all reflective? Or maybe it is just a coincidence that in the past few weeks we have received several releases that seem to chime with the times. Or maybe it’s just me, more receptive to the melancholic.
Whatever, Netherlands five-piece Eskina have fashioned another mournful soundtrack for our times.
Combining the reflective tones of cello (Berber Heerema) and viola (Kellen McDaniel) with sympathetic guitar (Merel Van Hoek) and occasional electronica courtesy of Maarten Vos.
I’ve seen Philip Glass and Radiohead bandied about as reference points. Don’t let that put you off as frankly it isn’t really true. This is simply wonderful instrumental music that retains an accessibility throughout.
It’s not all one-dimensional either. ‘Maitri’ for example reveals an almost township vibe on guitar whilst bassist Joop De Graaf and drummer Mischa Porte keep things suitably pneumatic.
But this is about as animated as it gets because from ‘Setting Sun’ via the title track and ‘True Love Waits’ it’s all very introspective. If you seek some refuge from the mainstream in terms of music, step right in. And get those candles lit. ****
Review by David Randall
Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK
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Power Plays w/c 21 April 2025
THE DEVIL WEARS NADA Late Night Talking (Eonian Records)
DROWNING POOL Madness (SBG Records)
PARKER BARROW Make It (indie)
REDIKIN Nailed It (Wormholedeath)
PENNY FOUNTAIN Euphoria (indie)
CRY FOR MERCY Saving Grace (indie)
VIGILANTES Life In The Fast Brain (indie)
Featured Albums w/c 21 April 2025
09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003 – 2024 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003 – 2024 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003 – 2024 (Singer Songwriter)
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