Most artists that stand out possess a distinct ‘sound’, a hook, that makes the listener sit up and take note. For Raf & O, it is surely without question the haunting, sensual vocals of Raf Mantelli.
The South London-based electronic trio create warm, Portishead-esque downbeat electronica, and this influence is evident in Mantelli’s vocals also; though perhaps Lamb would be a more suited larynx barometer. Throughout full debut “A Giant In The Snow”, the soundscapes remain minimal and often experimental, with glitchtronica playing a crucial role; but one eye always remains on that delicious nugget of pretty pop. In applying this delicate balance between the two, a smart, delicate and powerful synergy is created.
“Pawn In A Game Of Chess” has a glorious spacious feel, and draws on intimate tones with sweet, dually laid vocals. Stand-out track (arguably) “Gio” encapsulates that moment just as you wake from a warm dream, but have yet to enter the crushing reality of the real world; a state of ambient fuzzy bliss.
At times, the album as a whole threatens to become so slow-paced, and so laidback that it could render the whole thing a shade catatonic. However punchier tracks such as “Invisible” and “Gio” immediately after, help hugely to break things up with broken beats and edgy glitches to wrestle with – akin to fellow London glitch-mob Nedry (who they have also played with incidentally).
Slightly disquieting, yet definitely beautiful hazy sunny afternoon listening – sumptuous stuff to dream to, whilst you dream-up worlds’ and possibilities.
7.5/10, out now
Words by Tim Boddy
