Mulj EP by Juri: A Minimalist’s Dream or Just Background Noise?
Let’s get one thing straight—Juri’s Mulj EP isn’t your typical electronic banger. Released back in 2014 from the cold, quiet corners of Finland, this self-released gem (yep, no fancy label here) is more like an abstract painting than a club anthem. It’s got that “I’m-too-cool-to-try” vibe, blending minimalism, ambient tones, and some seriously out-there abstract sounds. And honestly? That’s what makes it kinda unforgettable.
The album kicks off with "Pohja," which translates to “bottom” or “foundation.” Fitting, because this track feels like stepping into a foggy basement where time slows down. There’s no rush, no big drop—just these soft, glitchy textures looping around you. It’s not something you’d blast on your morning commute, but late at night? Perfect. You can almost picture Juri sitting in his studio, fiddling with knobs while snow piles up outside. It sticks in your head because it doesn’t try too hard—it just exists, calm and mysterious.
Then there’s “Trains,” which might be my favorite. No, it doesn’t sound like actual trains (thank god), but it has this rhythmic pulse, like wheels clacking along tracks. The beat fades in and out, layered with faint hums and clicks, as if you’re hearing someone else’s memory of a train ride. Maybe they were daydreaming, staring out the window at nothing in particular. Whatever it is, it’s hypnotic. I found myself zoning out halfway through, only to snap back and realize how much I liked it. Weird, right?
The rest of the tracks follow suit—“Foreword” feels like an intro that forgot it was supposed to lead somewhere, and “Mulj” itself is so stripped-down it almost disappears entirely. Even the mastering by Lauri Saine keeps things raw and unpolished, letting Juri Leskinen’s vision shine without overproducing the life out of it.
So yeah, Mulj EP won’t be everyone’s cup of tea—or coffee, given we’re talking about Finland here. But for those who dig experimental stuff, this album is like finding a hidden corner in a crowded room. Quiet, yes, but full of character.
Here’s the kicker though: listening to this made me wonder if Juri even intended for people to pay attention. Like, maybe he just wanted us to press play and forget it’s on. If that’s true, then mission accomplished, dude.
