Mauro Remiddi proved on debut album Strange Weekend that Porcelain Raft is a solo project capable of generating a heart-tugging milieu of shoegaze that hovers in a sonic stratosphere. Permanent Signal continues this high-minded perspective. But its destination is more ambiguous and its short length leaves many questions up in the air.
Think of the Ocean sets the delicate tone for Permanent Signal with a reverberating, chopped-up frequency that mirrors noise drifting aimlessly through space and time, searching for an audience, or at least something material to reach out to. The melodies create a soft ambiance of rapid eye movement, while Remiddis vocals chime in to slather a masculine redolence of dusky croons that could pass for those of Beach House frontwoman Victoria Legrand. This is not to accuse Porcelain Raft of cribbing influence, but rather to demonstrate that much of what is heard on the record comes across as sounds that have already been tumbling in the ether for a number of years. Dont agree? Give Night Birds a listen and then try to argue with a straight face that this song couldn’t easily stand in as a Beach House B-side.
The album is a pleasant stroll down an inoffensive pathway of entranced atmosphere. The tones collect and build toward a crescendo, but the songs never quite get there. And thats where the record falls short. Cluster starts with an intro comfortable next to Deerhunters Microcastle opener “Cover Me (Slowly)”. Unlike Microcastle, though, there is no sense of purpose, hope, or even despair. Instead, tracks like I Lost Connection, Warehouse, and Open Letter – although often meant as interludes – drift alone and isolated, neither coming nor going. Its frustrating to listen to a record that leads down a trail before revealing even more trail ahead, with no real payoff. Not to say all journeys require a destination, as the ride itself is often the most enjoyable sequence of any trip. But here, the engine remains in neutral. The tantric sex keeps going and there is little hope for climax.
Five Minutes From Now and Minor Pleasure stand out as exceptions that each find a voice and move along with a sense of robust purpose and flair. Remiddi is at his best when he departs from the work of his contemporaries – be they Youth Lagoon or even Sigur Rós – to embark down an off-kilter avenue. Permanent Signal is replete with moments of true awe and experimentation – such as the percussive synths of It Aint Easy – that could feel at home on fellow Secretly Canadian labelmate Yeasayers latest single. Porcelain Raft has a lot to say and puts together a savory live show. But Permanent Signals lack of ambition and almost-there mentality will leave mouths craving something a bit more flavorful.
Essential Tracks: Think of the Ocean, Minor Pleasure, and Five Minutes From Now.