Tobias Hellkvist - Arms

When pondering Tobias Hellkvist's new record "Evolutions", keep the title in mind and remember that evolution takes place over huge periods of time. It is not revolution and though this new album does show progression, it does not reflect monumental change. The readily identifiable guitars are gone, replaced by tones and drone, all drifting towards monolithic ambience. "Arms" is a track built on echoing chimes and overtones, sounding something like an underwater clockshop. Or maybe it's your head that's underwater, as the cacophony eventually reveals a deep the groan of a sinking ship that in turn shifts into a light roar of rushing currents and cracking ice. Of course, this being Tobias and his music being the way it is, it's far more dreamy than dreadful. The term "Dronepop" has been floated before, but Tobias is the one artist who I think personifies it best.

MP3: Tobias Hellkvist - Arms