Kr-Krr — Nebulage

Exploring the interaction between a physical Ondes Martenot and a virtual reconstruction, Kr-Krr (Nathalie Forget and Gilles Aubry) fuse the haunting waves of the instrument with electronic experimentation, creating an intriguing mixture of texture and tone. Based around improvisation, the duo work together to bring this early electronic instrument into a new age, allowing its voice to shine but also giving it provenance within a modern experimental setting. Its warm, wavering voice is somewhere between a theremin and a bowed instrument; this semi-alien quality gives it a head start in melding with the more experimental electronics that make up the bulk of Nebulage's sound.

Nathalie Forget and Gilles Aubry skillfully combine their talents and bring Nebulage to life, the Ondes Martenot and its simulated counterpart work together to establish an interesting tension that moves the album along. Although the Ondes is an electronic instrument, there is an organic feel to it, which helps to involve the listener more in this improvisation. On the surface, Nebulage is somewhat haunting, the Ondes really setting the mood, its ghostly moans rising from the electronic background like a voice on the foggy moors. Nathalie's control of this instrument allows her to give it a life of its own, the hidden vocalist of the project. In addition, the Ondes is used to build tension in the lower ranges, like the frantic movements of a hornet breaking away from the swarm. The insect-like flourishes add to the organic feel and give texture to the droning electronics filling in the back. There are some louder moments in Nebulage, where Gilles gets to flex his noise muscles a bit, adding a nice, industrial contrast to the organic Ondes. Overall, Nebulage is a quieter work, its elements geared more toward contemplation and reflection instead of rebellion and vociferousness. That is certainly a strength for the duo, and this restraint allows the instruments and electronics to speak clearly and uninterrupted, telling their tale and letting the listener interpret as desired.

Nebulage is a wonderful work that showcases a lesser-known electronic instrument, as well as the virtuoso that is helping to keep the device active and relevant. In a world full of digital replicas, push-button sequencers, and AI-generated music, hearing an instrument that helped start the electronic age reminds us of where it all began, how it has changed, and where the shape of sound will be in the future. This is the duo's first collaboration together, and the interplay highlights their skills. Hopefully we will see Nathalie and Gilles working together more as time goes on.