Stef.in - Icterus II [Barnyard Records]

Released via the Canadian Barnyard Records label on April 4th, 2k25 is "Icterus II", the second iteration of Stefan Hegerat's "Icterus" series - this time executed in a group setting with his band x group x ensemble Stef.in. Rolled out over roughly 37 minutes and a total of eight pieces we see the group comprised of two guitars, bass and drums embarking on a rather explorative journey into what could be roughly described as PostRock with a jazzy twist, bringing forth hyper-seductive, yet slightly off-kilter guitar melodies and harmonics rolled out over abstract, at times even fragmented, albeit somewhat groove-focused drum and bass work in the albums opener that is "Three Wars" with the subsequent "Here's To You" providing deep, yet twangy guitar textures backed by stripped down minimalist organic bass movements, "Dosage" seemingly meandering between elements of pre-medidated MathRock experimentalisms if those are a thing even and free floating Improv atop a foundation of slightly Dub-informed bass whilst the final cut named "Leave Unattended And Suffer The Consequences" waves goodbye on a short, yet intense MathRock note with a slightly psychedelic twist just to name a few. A highly complex affair, this one is, which probably is more suitable for experienced listeners than for untrained beginners.