Pascal Schumacher's new album LUNA is in complete contrast to his previous release SOL, and it's not just the play with contrasting album titles that points to the different moods of brightness and darkness. Both releases also come from different creative viewpoints. While SOL offered a sense of spontaneous discovery as Schumacher embarked on his first solo endeavor with the vibraphone after years of playing with bands and ensembles, LUNA captures a more contemplative side of Schumacher's work. This involves composing for others, specifically for the Belgian post-classical ensemble Echo Collective.

Echo Collective has earned an international reputation in the post-classical world: chosen by icons such as A Winged Victory for the Sullen and the late Jóhann Jóhannsson for their instrumental expertise and arranging experience, the collective is also known for their interpretive intuition in genres such as rock, synth-pop, and black metal. The synergies between the musicians are palpable throughout on LUNA, with Echo Collective laying out something like a bed or canvas on which Pascal Schumacher paints with his vibraphone and other pitched percussion.

LUNA's nocturnal sentiment is conveyed largely through calm and tenderness, but not every vibration of the late-night hours is so serene. Rhythmicon is one track that plays with this very different nocturnal energy, blossoming with increasing speed and intensity. Inspired by Leon Theremin's eponymous 1930's electromechanical instrument, Rhythmicon forms an energetic percussive track that incorporates multiple and simultaneous rhythmic patterns. 

LUNA is a shining friend in the lonely night, a reminder of our eternal satellite. -Translation by ArkivMusic