Rvng Int'l US Vinyl & CDs

Review: Oliver Coates' Throb, Shiver, Arrow of Time is an exploration of memory and emotion, blending the tactile with the ephemeral. This third album from the British cellist, producer, and composer, released through RVNG Intl., encapsulates six years of introspection and creative evolution. Following the atmospheric textures of his previous work, skins n slime, Coates delves deeper into the interplay of digital and analogue sound. The album's centerpiece, 'Shopping centre curfew,' reflects a surreal fusion of events from South London during the pandemic, manifesting a unique blend of temporal dissonance and vivid soundscapes. Tracks like 'Please be normal' and '90' showcase Coates' ability to weave misty tones and shifting frequencies into a cohesive auditory experience. Collaborations with Malibu and chrysanthemum bear, along with Faten Kanaan's synth textures, enhance the album's depth. Inspired by artist Sarah Sze's installations, Coates applies a sculptural approach to sound, creating a dynamic interplay between digital manipulation and live performance. The result is a rich experience that resists closure, with the final track 'Make it happen' embodying a defiant push against silence.