The sensation of walking on a frozen lake: The crackle of ice underfoot unhinges the nerves. Every fragile stride and landing is a resolution of resolve to push forward. Each warm pulse of short breath collides with the cold air in a puff of steam. The heartbeat steadies with the groans of the massive slabs of ice settling against the shore banks steeped with snow. A sweeping gaze of the desolate lake leads to the calming realization of being immersed in isolation. Surrounded in stillness, the panic subsides.
Nico / Nicolas Jaar’s recent foray into minimalist electro with guitarist Dave Harrington has yielded a stunning EP under the moniker Darkside. Jaar’s nuanced and striding rhythms set the landscape while his warm, breathy, and soulful croonings mingle with Harrington’s restrained and entrancing guitar grooves.