Johannson, Johann “Dis” [Worker's Institute]

This is the third solo recording for Johann Johannsson (co-founder of the production company & record label, Kitchen Motors). His developing interest in soundtrack composition has led him to create warm & intimate electronica with a touch of sadness for the Icelandic film, Dis. The cinematic soundscape also envelops post-rock qualities on several tracks, utilizing the talents of indie artists Trabant, Singapore Sling, Funerals, Slowblow, popular Icelandic vocalist Ragenheidur Grondal, and guitarist Hilmar Jensson. Dis is gorgeous ambient programming, seductive cerebral IDM glitch & minimal static ticks, soft rubbery organ tones, and pensive melodic ivories, with resonating tonal beauty and distinct, yet brief, pop interludes. These moments sometimes even transition into punchier pop rock. Johannsson’s music was designed to reflect Dis? filmic atmosphere, coalescing recurrent thematic sounds throughout and he’s done a magnificent job. Dis unfolds in slow motion and enraptures in toto. Gentle instrumental sorrow, perfect for a dreary downpour in the woods.