Album Review: Плен by Крем Сода
Крем Сода’s 2016 release, Плен, is a striking entry in Russia’s electronic music scene. Released under the Electronica label, this album dives deep into techno and house styles, creating an immersive sonic journey. The title track, Плен, alongside other compositions, captures listeners with its raw energy and hypnotic beats. It’s not just music; it’s an experience that pulls you into its rhythm-driven world.
One standout track is, unsurprisingly, Плен. The song kicks off with a pulsating bassline that feels like a heartbeat in a dark, crowded club. Layers of synths build steadily, creating tension without ever fully releasing it—leaving you suspended, almost as if you’re trapped (or “в плену,” if you will). This clever use of restraint makes the track unforgettable. You don’t just hear it; you feel it. It’s minimalistic yet rich, capturing the essence of what techno should be: atmospheric and unapologetically immersive.
Another gem worth mentioning is an unnamed track buried midway through the album—a haunting piece where glitchy textures meet warm, melodic undertones. Its unpredictability keeps you hooked. One moment, it’s all mechanical precision, and the next, there’s a human touch sneaking in, reminding you that machines can have soul too. Tracks like these show Крем Сода’s ability to blend calculated production with emotional depth.
What sets Плен apart isn’t just its technical brilliance but also how cohesive it feels despite its variety. Each track flows seamlessly into the next, making the album perfect for both focused listening sessions and late-night drives through dimly lit streets.
In reflecting on this album, one can’t help but think about its lasting impression. In a genre often criticized for being cold or repetitive, Крем Сода proves otherwise. Плен manages to be both cerebral and visceral—an achievement many strive for but few accomplish. And honestly? Listening to it feels like stepping into another dimension, one where time slows down and sound takes over. Who knew Russian electronica could feel so… alive?
Unexpectedly, after finishing the album, I found myself humming bits of Плен while doing mundane chores. If that ain’t a sign of a memorable record, I dunno what is.
