Markus Reuter

Markus Reuter makes his US-label debut with the psychoactive soundscape work, Trepanation.

Alternately dense and sparse, disturbing and serene, Trepanation consists of tonal instrumental foundations over which half-heard voices and atmospheric effects are added in order to evoke the disconnected floating sensation of the subconscious state.

The word Trepanation refers to the, now abandoned, practice of removing a piece of the skull to relieve pressure on the brain. This practice was used to treat a number of psychological conditions. Markus initially visualised the music on this release being a less invasive method of achieving similar goals.

The album marks Markus Reuter’s first release with Lotuspike, and is a typically inventive example of his unique compositional style and instrumental dexterity.

Trepanation shimmers with complex layers and contrasts, combining soft atmospheres and pulsing rhythmic guitar textures.