Not many acts can fuse two working genres and make it work. Microfilm’s sophomore album does just that. The duo have transgressed the chill-out of the likes of Zero 7 and given it a lush of electro. 

The Slingshot Orchestra is a collection of pleasantly saturnine beats that borrow from a myriad of musical genres to fashion an elaborate set of songs. There are songs that can unwind the weary, like the melancholic opening track “Flooded Ballrooms,” and others that can get you prancing like “We Are Terribly Sorry For Your Loss,” which is robust with attitude yet fittingly moody.

“The Love Theme” encompasses their brand of relax-hop. While the song can fit perfectly on any chill-out compilation and is reminiscent of Air’s “Kelly, Watch The Stars!,” it still has a dirty thump to it. This is further demonstrated on “Flora & Fauna” – A track that is wandering in melody with a Depeche Mode tint.

There is much to say about the album’s cohesiveness. While trying to introduce many different elements into the set, Orchestra flows but does not ebb. Standout tracks like “Ciccone” (possibly a reference to Madonna) merge in perfectly with sexy hard-hitters such as “Hospitalized For Exhaustion” (possible a reference to Mariah Carey).

To put it plainly, the album works well. The tracks are free of templates, but without being too experimental. It is one of the few electronic records out there that can be a calmer and a rattle-rouser. 

Visit the duo’s website.