The Clavilis Muri is a  collaboration between Serbian  based Nemanja Nikoliæ( Dosis Letalis,  N.I.H.L., Relicuum) and northern UK  based Erika Yume(Shurayukui-hime, D.S.W.A.C.V)- both parties are active & creative figures within the wall noise scene- so this collab  seems like an interesting proposition on paper.

The release takes in five tracks per side of tape, and these each last between two & eight minutes apiece. The first side’s tracks bring together rather plod- bound & doomed piano wonderings, with a decidedly pared-back selection of noise texturing. On the first side, the piano elements are darkly ornate, though at times a little shapeless. And around these, the noise elements move from crinkling & slurred feasts, onto muffled scrapes, through to slowed low-end pitter-patters.

On the second side, the tracks features reversed piano elements, with a slightly more biting & sustainable (though still pared back) noise textures. From as far as I can make out it seems like the piano elements are once again fairly shape-less, though the reversing of these create a rather shadowy surreal feel. The noise textures this time are a blend of more active squiggles, crinkling & cracking descents, slurred rip trails, and pops ‘n’ snaps.

I’ve always liked the possibilities of blending together piano elements, or ambience with subtle noise elements- and over the years have heard a few tries at it. On the whole, this tape passes back as rather effective & moody background sonics. The issue comes when you start to focus in on what’s going on & it’s structure, as the piano elements do tend to be somewhat shapeless, free, and samey. Also, & certainly, on the first side, the noise textures seem a little predictable & once again a little samey. Certainly, the second side was more rewarding in both the piano elements and variation/ effectiveness of noise textures.

On the whole, this self-titled debut is an interesting & intriguing experiment, and if you looking for something to create a creepy & at times darkly surreal sonic backdrop it’s ideal. I just wish there had been a bit more depth & variation in both the piano & subtle noise elements. I’ll certainly be interested in hearing if this project puts out any more releases and if their sound develops- as this is surely a promising debut release.