MELTING STEINE Vinyl & CDs

Review: Swiss trio Melting Steineicomposed of Martin Schenker, Luzius Schuler, and Dshamilja Kaltireturns with a nostalgic and sun-drenched collection of tracks on their latest offering, Universal Crush. Recorded in a garage-turned-studio using an old Tascam tape machine, the album captures the warmth and charm of analogue production, weaving together influences of jazz, bossa nova, and psychedelic synthesiser music. From the delicate groove of 'Dodge' to the carefree, laid-back sway of 'Front Porch Days', each track radiates a relaxed yet intricate craftsmanship. 'Glide' continues the vibe, its shimmering synths and tape delay effects evoking dreamy, far-off landscapes. The project is filled with a distinct sense of place, as though each song transports the listener to a sun-kissed Mediterranean island. What sets Melting Steine apart is their attention to texture and atmosphere. The use of spring reverb, chorus and vibrato imbues the music with a retro feel, while still sounding refreshingly modern. Tracks like 'Endless' and 'Cassis' are layered with analogue synths and flute melodies, creating a soundscape that feels both organic and otherworldly. This is music designed for daydreams, blending mood and melody with a timeless touch, perfect for escapism without leaving home.