Obliecht Finding “True Leaves”

Started by Donat Kaufmann to keep himself occupied during lockdown, Obliecht has since expanded into a trio with multi-instrumentalist Anuk Schmelcher and, replacing Elias Menzi in January, dulcimer-player Nayan Stalder. Their second EP “True Leaves” is available now via Irascible Records. Kaufmann made his name with the hypnotic post-psychedelic rock of One Sentence. Supervisor, whilst Schmelcher has released solo records on Humus Records. Kaufmann also works for the Swiss branch of Music Declares Emergency. If he makes art, he says, it is activistically inclined; if he practises activism, he is artistically inclined.

The unusual list of instruments – apart from the dulcimer, it includes guitars, drums and synths – gives an indication of the strange and compelling sound that comes from Obliecht. The shimmering dulcimer chords blend in seamlessly with broad synth washes and featherlight guitars. The vocal harmonies, meanwhile, glide across the melodies with wonderful ease to create a deep sense of calm and reflection.

Obliecht
Irascible
Donat Kaufmann
Anuk Schmelcher
Elias Menzi
Nayan Stalder
One Sentence. Supervisor
Humus Records
Music Declares Emergency