In Dust

2011 release from the Stockholm-based Electronic duo. Taking advantage of the chaotic nature of analog synthesizers, they summon up ghosts from the machine, crafting instrumentals that unfold with an organic, spontaneous logic. Last year's self-titled debut proved an underground hit, its haunted pianos and pulsing electronics attracting fans like Kieran Hebden, Caribou and Fuck Buttons and landing in 2010 Top Tens by tastemakers Boomkat and Phonica. Their full-length follow-up takes their sound in stark new directions. Compared with the warm, woody feel of their debut, In Dust is darkened and contemplative. It still recalls the kosmische explorations of Cluster and Tangerine Dream, and Kraftwerk's heady blend of pop and propulsion, but it feels lived in and worn down, like an old 12-inch that's been spun many times, its groove scratched and erratic.