aaamusic | On 12, Feb 2012

The EP starts with Dream Analysis, its synth and whispered, tangled vocals giving it very much a dream-like feel and giving a vision for the entire EP, which I can only describe as a bit like perfumed purple velvet steam invading the brain. The song starts as though we are slowly entering a dream world, and one we certainly do enter.

I Knew It is one of the more upbeat songs on the album, with more back beat and vocals throughout the song. At times songs, especially Inner Ambient, are reminders of video games from the 90’s. However, the EP overall has a feel of 80’s electro-pop, especially with the style of the synth. At times when listening to it you do feel like you’re in a video game level involving ice or clouds or something, Lust & Fame particularly, with the mood turning a bit more anxious in Shatter the Jewel but with the same themes remaining. Jesse Ruin, please make retro video games.

Whilst listening, most of the time I felt as though I was lolling on big pastel clouds in a video game where the protagonist is in their dreams and they have to save their dream world or something. Oh, and everyone communicates in whispers, like those mumbling, often inaudible words and phrases people say in their sleep.

 

I have to say Jesse Ruins make very good use of effects to give their songs a very imaginative quality to them; they certainly got me imagining a crazy world! The androgynous mix of distorted, echoing vocals gives a sense of mystery about the band. There is an aura of mystery concerning this Japanese duo and it’s this clouded cloak that keeps them interesting. The music very much reflects this as does their secretive image. The only downside is that, although the album is a very cohesive window, thoroughly exploring a theme, it can become repetitive for the same reasons. The concepts and style of the six songs are rather similar in areas and this works both to their advantage and disadvantage.

From the pitter pattering of glockenspiel and subtle guitar to rhythmic back beats and prominent dreamy synth, Jesse Ruins give a few pages of a wistful and creative world which will leave the imagination travelling and the ears waiting for a full album to appear, which is scheduled for later this year. It’s kind of simple, but very effective. A bedroom project where you never leave the bedroom, just enter a dream world.

 

Rose Benge