5 x 4 is a new solo collection from award-winning Finnish composer, producer, and musician Laura Naukkarinen, recorded at Elektronmusikstudion EMS in Stockholm using the historic Buchla 200 modular synthesizer, an AKG BX20 spring reverb, and, on two songs, her voice. The album shows yet another side of her singular musical universe, by turns aquatic and meditative, always pulsing with energy.
Lau Nau’s ninth solo album, 5 x 4 is being released by her longtime co-conspirators Fonal Records (Finland) and Beacon Sound (US). Composed and recorded at EMS over a period of five years, the title is a reference to the Buchla’s sequencer, which has five steps and four tracks, thus creating the characteristic five-beat tempo behind the compositions. The eight tracks that comprise 5 x 4 fluctuate between different moods: the contemplative hum of Isopoda; the coral-like tones and lush vocal melodies of lead single Sessilia; and the carbonated radiance of Hyperiidea and Amphipoda.
The cover art is by an Italian painter Ester Grossi, printed in special fluorescent pantone colors that are especially luminant under UV light.
Credits:
Recorded at Elektronmusikstudion EMS Stockholm 2017-2022.
Composed and performed by Laura Naukkarinen with Buchla 200 modular synthesizer, AKG BX20 spring reverb, and voice.
Recording and mixing: Laura Naukkarinen
Mastering: Alho Audio Mastering
Cover art: Ester Grossi
Layout: Sami Sänpäkkilä
