The brainchild of engineer and multi-instrumentalist Hans Jurgen, Thelema's Hearing the Light is the flagship release for a new, Austrian-based 'cinematic music' label Cineploit, showcasing a stark yet impressive opening salvo.
The music here on Hearing the Light is dark and minimalistic, for the most part, relying on restrained instrumentation and simple melodies to leave their mark upon the listener. Jurgen succeeds in creating a palpable atmosphere, however, utilizing minimal electronics, minor guitar/bass work and sparse percussion in smart combination with each other, resulting in a decidedly well-flowing piece of art.
If there's anything 'cinematic' about Thelema's work, it's very much noir in nature, probably owing a debt to Angelo Badalamenti's iconic score to the television series Twin Peaks than anything funk or prog related. There also seems to be a marked Portishead feel to the tracks with female vocal accompaniment, such as "Still Hearing the Light" and "A Light Reprise," and it's on these songs where the morning star of Thelema shines the brightest.
Hearing the Light impresses from start to finish, however, and is clearly meant to be engaged and enjoyed as an album experience. Multiple spins only reveal more hidden grooves and atmospheric jewels within this bleak yet impressive soundscape.
THELEMA'S 'HEARING THE LIGHT' WILL BE RELEASED ON LIMITED EDITION VINYL AND CD IN APRIL ON CINEPLOIT RECORDS!
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