Around the theme of the ocean symbolising the subconscious, the hidden world and a very personal concept of “loisiveté” a combination of idleness “oisiveté” and law “loi”, Maninkari continues exploring a weird and dreamlike world.
As usual, the Charlot brothers (Frédéric & Olivier) resort almost exclusively to the use of acoustic instruments with oriental origins (bodhran, cymbalom, santoor, zurna).
Percussion instruments especially the bodhran play melodic or textural figures, whereas stringed instruments become repetitive to a point where they embody the rythmics.
The combination of repetition and oriental tones create a heady sound continuum providing the 10 nameless tracks with a mantra-like resonance. A short breathing in the middle of the album with an organ and birdsong is the only quiet moment of this tormented (but without violence), and meditative (but without bliss) record.
The permanent state of tension recalls the rigours of law and repetition provides the calm alternative of idleness “l’oisiveté”. (…)