FITKINWALL - UIST
Placing three vibrant plucked harps within a new electronic context, FITKINWALL use fragments of old Gaelic melodies within interlocking electronic patterns, loops and ambient sounds.
By Grace
12/8/20241 min read
FitkinWall "UIST" (ALBUM)
FitkinWall, an harp and electronica duo, go into themes of migration, loss, and longing in their new album, UIST. This work draws inspiration from the eviction and forced migration of farmers from Scotland’s Highlands during the Clearances. By blending ancient Gaelic tunes with modern electronica, UIST becomes a thought-provoking experience that allows listeners to interpret its resonances on their own terms.
Production wise, UIST is a perfect example of sonic storytelling, where every note and texture feels carefully chosen. Graham Fitkin’s use of electronics, samples, and loops harmonizes with Ruth Wall’sl harp performances, creating a rich sound. Tracks often start with eery melodic fragments, pulsating patterns, and harmonies, evoking a sense of space in each song. The album’s ambient, folk, and new-classical influences call to mind the works of Steve Reich, Philip Glass, and Lau, while also finding their own niche.
The balance between the ancient and the modern is central to UIST. Wall’s array of harps- spanning concert, electro, and wire-strung varieties- interact with Fitkin’s Moog Voyager and Ableton loops, placing age-old traditions in new contexts. The result is an understated yet thought-provoking album that invites repeated listens, each revealing new emotions.
UIST showcases FitkinWall’s ability to intertwine historical resonance with forward-thinking artistry. For fans, UIST is bound to resonate both emotionally and intellectually. Whether you’re drawn to the precision of the compositions or the evocative atmospheres they create, this album stands as a testament to the power of sonic storytelling.
