Album Review: Ølten – Ambiance (Hummus Records)

Emerging from the Swiss Jura mountains, which in itself is the cradle of mechanical, clock like precision, the guys in Ølten follow their roots down to the core. One guitar, one bass, and one drum set is all it has taken them, to make their path down to the valley, grinding forward through stone and boulders since 2012. Their music is sheer and sharp – “Heavy rock porn sludge instrumental” is how they call it.

Ølten’s new album is called Ambiance and is out on November 2nd 2018 via Hummus Records.

Igelkott simple start does not stop it being a haunted atmospheric opener, one that builds in power and volume to unleash a sludgy wall of noise. The instrumental heaviness erupts like a sore causing pain and relief in equal measures.

A wonderfully layered album, it’s astounding how much each track on Ambiance pulsates with life and dark pleasures. Ølten want to haunt your dreams and with the likes of Klark, Lied and Gover you’re going to have many a sleepless night.

Like all good horror, curiosity drives you forward as you peek behind your fingers. Sludge is an appealing offering thanks to the soft guitar melody that plays off the dirty bass chug nicely. Popoutro is a short interlude that isn’t really needed before Pope sees things out in dour style.

Ølten – Ambiance Full Track Listing:

1. Igelkott
2. Raus
3. Klark
4. Lied
5. Gover
6. Sludge
7. Popoutro
8. Pope

You can find out more and pre-order the album now over on the band’s website and Bandcamp. Keep up to date with news by liking their Facebook Page, following them on Twitter and on Instagram.