The enigmatic Taiwanese brothers, Hom Yu and Jian Chi , who record as Mong Tong, have created a stunning album here. It’s a blend of traditional “kitsch sound” as they describe it, fused with ambient sounds and psychedelic rock.
What makes it so exciting is this description barely scratches the surface. There’s a deeper well of influences to draw upon. Sometimes, they’re utterly otherworldly; elsewhere, locked in a post-Krautrock groove.
It’s the way they use instruments: synths are made to sound minimal – the use of prog guitars is a unique element, the addition of steel pan brings a chiming,ghostly texture. As the album builds, it’s all mired in a slow- burning intensity. A beautiful album, and easily one of the best of 2023.
Out via Guruguru Brain on June 30th
Hit The North 