Foltin: Ovaa Translplatirana Mashina za Chukanje Dosega ne Chukala Ljubovno Pismo

Continuing in the spirit of its previous masterpiece, Loo-Lee-Taa Too (Self Produced, 2005), Foltin stretches and shifts its musical ramblings like a sea captain navigating a treacherous ocean. Though the group doesn't sound like an angry thunderstorm dissipating into still winds and humid temperatures, it does sound like gangbusters, giving the feeling that something fresh is happening. Always inspired, Foltin brings its concepts and music to a new plateau with Ovaa Translplatirana Mashina za Chukanje Dosega ne Chukala Ljubovno Pismo (This Transplanted Typewriter Hasn't Typed a Love Letter Yet).

Typewriter is nothing less than a masterpiece. All tracks are highlights and it represents a new level of groove, atmosphere, and accessibility for the band. This playful modern group uses all the sonic cues of classic lounge, disco and jazz music. But what's best about this CD is that it transcends almost every genre of music. It's lounge. It's trip- hop. It's dance. It's ambient. It's exotica. It's lush and mellow and full of delicious sounds. Simply put, Foltin crafts infectiously upbeat songs that stand on their own, and the veteran band from Bitola is always pushing the musical limits of its sound. Jazz, by nature, is a genre founded on experimentation and embracement of the unfamiliar. But is not strictly jazz per se, as Foltin frequently blur genre lines, experimenting with a variety of styles and sounds. The group has changed its sound from album to album, while always retaining a sense of familiarity.

On Typewriter, Foltin continues its quest for funky beats and intriguing soundscapes. While the album is only 23 minutes long, it's not the quantity that matters, but the quality; each track is crafted with excellence and an attention to creating a unique sound. Foltin stands out among its peers because of its attention to detail; its grooves are contagious, and the group infuses its music with a personal sense of humor. The band uses atmospheric sound effects to swirl around the melodies, generating strange yet familiar noises. There is such a definite sound to this whole album, yet each track has its own distinct flavor.

Foltin creates subtle and charming music that melds the mood of gypsy street music with late night jazz club improvisation. Nevertheless, Ovaa Translplatirana Mashina za Chukanje Dosega ne Chukala Ljubovno Pismo evokes intense emotions and profound feelings.