The former Cocteau Twins guitarist is back with his second solo EP of the year. “My EP “Astoria” picks up where my release “Atlas” had set off towards – a conclusion of a journey, like an arrival at a far-off destination,” Robin says. “I enjoy the continuity, and the EP format allows me to express these ideas in an episodic form,” Like on “Atlas”, Guthrie has refined his style so much that discerning what instruments you’re hearing is more difficult than ever before. It’s a watercolor approach to sound, with heavily treated guitars that wash over you like synthesizers — or maybe they are synths? — and delicate piano (which could also be guitar?) slowly descends down a pastel-colored spiral staircase.
Three of the four tracks feature drums that I will admit make me long for a voice — any voice, doesn’t have to be Liz — to enter the scene, but it’s the pure misty atmosphere of “Jura” that is “Astoria‘s” most Tran sportive moment. Whatever he’s playing, it’s as gorgeous and ethereal as ever. Let the mystery be.
The Fat Angel Sings 