Before very long, we're likely to all find ourselves wrapped in the furore of Christmas. With the new year fast approaching (but the craziness of the festive season yet to fully manifest), now feels like an appropriate time to take stock of the music that's shaped our 2024.
Over the coming weeks, our staff writers and contributors will shed light on their favourite albums from the last twelve months. Next, Luke revisits an old favourite on Ninja Tune.
Artist: Ben Böhmer
Title: Bloom
Label: Ninja Tune
Released: 27 September
Sounds like: A journey through lush soundscapes, balancing introspection and euphoria
Ben Böhmer
Since Spotify introduced its end of year Wrapped feature, it's become something of an annual tradition to share our most played tracks and favourite artists. While my top artists and genres tend to change year to year, one who consistently makes an appearance is Ben Böhmer.
Few have the ability to blend emotional depth with dancefloor-driven rhythms quite like him. Since Böhmer released his debut album Breathing on Anjunadeep in 2019, he has steadily amassed a devoted global following.
His unique live performance has further contributed to his popularity. Using synths, midi controllers and live looping, Böhmer creates immersive, improvisational sets that captivate audiences.
After a heavy few years of touring, Böhmer has returned with the highly anticipated Bloom, his first album in three years.
Bloom
Introducing the album is Martin, a stunning opener that begins with a delicate and emotional piano riff borrowed from German composer Martin Kohlstedt (as detailed by Böhmer in a post on the platform X). As the track unfurls, the piano is joined by a steady four-on-the-floor beat, grounding the piece with a danceable rhythm.
Featuring lyrics from Lykke Li, the second track Hiding layers her ethereal vocals over a lush arrangement that includes a subtle breakbeat and a soothing piano layer. The way everything comes together creates a feeling of weightlessness and serenity.
Another broken beat, Best Life sports vocals from JONAH. Positioned forward in the mix, the vocals help drive the track, adding an extra layer of energy to the beat. The combination creates an upbeat vibe, contrasting nicely with the more atmospheric tracks the album has to offer.
The sidechain pumping on Memory Cassettes gives it a strong rhythmic pulse, while a beautiful flute melody dances through the mix, adding an organic touch. These elements are perfectly balanced, giving a sense of space with an energy that keeps the track moving. It's a personal highlight.
Another euphoric number comes in the form of Beautiful. The track combines a lush atmosphere, deep bass and vocals from Malou to create a sense of bliss and freedom.
Following next, Faithless slows things right down, with stunning vocals from Erin LeCount taking centre stage. Her soulful delivery perfectly complements the track's downtempo leaning.
Featuring Enfant Sauvage, Evermore brings back the energy. Its beautiful chord progression weaves a lush string accompaniment, vocals and a warm bass. It's another of the album's standout tracks.
His sound has moved on from earlier works, but remains full of heart and warm and is unmistakably his. These explorations of ambient melodies and expansive soundscapes, invites listeners to truly lose themselves in the music. It's time to give Ben Böhmer his flowers.
With Bloom, Böhmer showcases his ability to blend heartfelt melodies with driving rhythms, creating music that resonates deeply with listeners. It's both emotive and painstakingly crafted. While each track feels like its own story, together they form a cohesive narrative deserving of continuous playthrough. Go give it a listen.
Highlights: Hiding, Memory Cassettes, Evermore
Bloom is out now and available to stream and purchase on all reputable platforms.
WORDS | by Luke Botting
