Compilations from Stockholm-based XKatedral label capture the colossal beauty and electrifying static at the core of its output (listen now)

Within the latter several years lots of exciting experimental music initiatives emerged from Scandinavia. XKatedral - a Swedish-based tape label - can be counted among others within that category. Behind this curiously mysterious identity are two young composers, Kali Malone (part of The Upper Glossa duo with Caterina Barbieri) and Maria W. Horn, both of whom have been gradually gaining prominence in the global experimental scene. A few tape releases have already demonstrated the label’s scope and the group’s creative potential. XKatedral has a striking and concise vision that mesmerizes with excellence right from the start. There is a merging of minimal and experimental forms with sheer beauty and a flawless sense of aesthetics. Several names have been rotating in the label’s roster so far - the aforementioned Kali Malone and her colleague and creative partner Caterina Barbieri, Ellen Arkbro and other emerging sonic architects.

The second XKatedral compilation features five long tracks from the majority of current label artists. It consists of three long melancholic drones (or “spectral monoliths”, as they chose to so accurately describe them), all performed on the organ or piano. It’s a very meditative record. Side A contains pieces by Kali Malone and Isak Edberg - two long hypnotic drones of sustained tension, with layers gradually evolving to reveal the epic and melancholic nature of the sound. Isak and Kali play in very subtle tones and the organ harmonies slowly unravel into haunted beauty with secret melodic textures creeping, surfacing. There is indeed a lot of action taking place underneath. This music has a heavy softness in the same way as static rays of sun piercing the breezy air of Autumn. Side B maintains similar dynamics on Marta Forsberg’s “Disquiet (Heart)” with its majestic calmness and peaceful yet uneasy tone. Kristofer Svensson and Ellen Arkbro pieces enrich the compilation with a slightly more playful approach: their piano tones swell, easily reminding one of an imaginary fusion between Erik Satie and lo-fi aesthetics.

XKatedral volume III is the latest in the series of compilations and consists of two “slowly evolving guitar cannons” (as per label’s description) again by the same featuring artists - Malone, Barbieri and Arkbro. Malone and Barbieri’s “Glory” kicks off with an esoteric Americana feel. Slowly evolving guitar loops transfer one into a very cinematic hypnotic state, an imaginary gothic townscape appearing in the desert horizon. Just as the previous compilation, “Glory” is astonishing in its details, soundscapes circulating around the main melodic line, crawling beneath it. “Oktober” floats some more autumnal moods and melancholy that is not too distant from darker shoegaze sounds. Both pieces have the graciousness and purity that are reminiscent of the spiritual epics of Jozef Van Wissem and his collabs with Jim Jarmusch, albeit in a more stripped down form. It’s an introverted journey across unexplored, yet utterly charming lands.

Both compilations require immersive and attentive listening and full concentration on the actions of sounds. A perfect companion for nocturnal walks. Moreover, these early tapes showcase a very interesting and rather unique vision of the people behind the label. XKatedral’s vision is strong and is realised through introspective music that shares a strong aesthetic appeal, classicist grandeur, minimalist charm and a strong emotional charge. These compositions might also be compared to architectural pieces as they share a similar static and monolithic appeal. Look no further if you are seeking a powerful soundtrack for inner contemplations and enlightenments.

Official Release Page

Volume II

A1 Isak Edberg - Lamé
A2 Kali Malone - In Light Of Marwa
B1 Kristofer Svensson - Ir Himinn, Grœnn
B2 Marta Forsberg - Disquiet (Heart)
B3 Ellen Arkbro - For Disklavier And Tape

Volume III

A1 Caterina Barbieri, Kali Malone - Glory (Final Movement)
B1 Ellen Arkbro, Kali Malone - Oktober