Rostam
Half-Light
[Nonsuch]
Half-Light is the debut solo album from multi-instrumentalist, producer and former member of Vampire Weekend, Rostam Batmanglij. The New Yorker’s profile as a prominent producer had, in recent years, come to define his career following critically acclaimed collaborations with Frank Ocean, Solange and Hamilton Leithauser (formerly of The Walkmen) on both of his solo albums. However, Rostam’s transition to performer is a frustrating combination of charming and confounding.
The record stemmed from Wood, the first solo-single released by Rostam in 2011. The instrumentation of the song pays homage to his Iranian heritage, a recurring sonic cornerstone of the album. Unfortunately, this distinct traditional style is jarring in the company of overtly contemporary compositions like Rudy and Hold You. This makes the record feel messy and lacking in a cohesive narrative.
The album’s titular track is tender and warm in its musicality, the combination of languid drum patterns and casual yet uplifting bass line evokes a similar exuberance of the romantic golden soaked haze which indicates the transitioning period of late-summer to early-autumn. Along with Bike-Dream, Gwan and EOS, the singles are Half-Light’s redeeming moments.
There are several instances of intriguing attempts of textural layering throughout the album, however they are not always entirely engaging. More often than not, listening to the songs can be a challenge in trying to decipher their DNA and purpose. You cannot help but feel that Rostam was overwhelmed by an abundance of ideas for melodies and floundered in editing his vision to make an album that gradually reveals its intricacies instead of aurally assaulting the listener.
Words – Zara Hedderman
Like This? Try These:
Dirty Projectors – Dirty Projectors
Vampire Weekend – Modern Vampires of the City
Hamilton Leithauser – I Had A Dream That You Were Mine
