Polish electronica with beats from Hvast on their debut release Chwasty Polskie (ZOHARUM ZOHAR 363-2) …this is the trio of Michał Głowacki, Arkadiusz Lerch, and Grzegorz Chudzik, some of whom were previously associated with the bands NVC (Non Violent Communication) and So Slow.
Played on computers and electronic devices by Głowacki, but the rhythm section of Lerch and Chudzik play bass and drums and bring a lot of dynamic twists and a real performative spark from their improv avant-rock backgrounds, such that Chwasty Polskie isn’t a completely introverted contemplation of darkness and doom. Even so, these lengthy instrumentals live under the twin shadows of doubt and uncertainty and things take a few minutes before the trio warm up to their assigned tasks. Quite enjoying the inventive gaps and spaces in ‘Bielun (Datura)’ and ‘Kakol’, which might be derived from a dub-mixing mentality, although you may prefer the long-form atmospherics of ‘Lopian’ which seems to describe, in sound, an arctic wasteland as a metaphor for the over-burdened human mind in a desolate state. The anthemic ‘Oset’ is the most accessible cut here, almost like an update on keyboard-led prog rock of the 1980s, except without any bombast or excess; it allows us to savour Michał Głowacki’s skill for understatement and minimal melodies, proposed in a self-effacing manner.
With guest musicians Aleksandra Buda (flute), Bartek Leśniewski (guitar) and Marcin Lokś (guitar) who appear fleetingly. Recorded in Buczkowice at a studio with the splendid name of Mustache Ministry. (22/10/2025)