Pastaklubben
Asperger
Phantom Channel

If the cyber-kids are united, are the cyber-kids alright? In any way, cyber-punks rule...cyberspace, cyber land. Cyberia?

"Asperger, or Asperger syndrome is an autism spectrum disorder, and people with it therefore show significant difficulties in social interaction, along with restricted and repetitive patterns of behaviour and interests. It differs from other autism spectrum disorders by its relative preservation of linguistic and cognitive development. Although not required for diagnosis, physical clumsiness and atypical use of language are frequently reported." (source: wikipedia.org)

I don't know if the four young Danes (who formed 2 years ago) have gotten some disorder or diagnosis, but Emil Hellbro, Finnur Thomsen, Anders Andersen and Ejvind Chang have come up with Asperger, holding one long track -- a title track stretching for 35 and a half minutes. Quite a challenging listen, even though its quite laidback and low-toned. Pastaklubben (great band name!) perform in musical landscapes related to the sound mosaic found in (Ridley Scott's classic 1982 sci-fi film) Blade Runner, which was scored by instrumental artist Vangelis. The only difference is: Pastaklubben are way more abstract. Like the press sheet from Phantom Channel describes their musical escapades: "...a joyful depression. A vivid tranquillity and a painful pleasure." Dystopia as a sedative, or as a painkiller. Dare I say dystopium. This is ambient electronica dark as the night, both fascinating and frightening. Not difficult to listen to, but far from being easy-listening. This is hovering emotions and floating atmospheric sounds.

"Asperger" was recorded in just one take, Pastaklubben armed with effects units, laptops and guitars. Danish dynamite, sort of, but it's a slow-motion explosion indeed.

Copyright © 2009 Håvard Oppøyen