Kotlovan - Beyond Sense

 Released: January 2

In his first release of 2026, multi-instrumentalist and composer Farkhad Saidmuratov brings us a somewhat brief but intricate four track EP. The pieces are predominantly piano-driven but feature a wealth of accompaniments that bring on a sense of slight bewilderment and intrigue. There is no overarching emotional theme here as in some of his previous works, but the complexity of the compositions creates an atmosphere of mystery combined with a free-form nature. The opening track “Saturnine” brings about this intrigue very carefully through the use of alternatively plodding and elevating piano arpeggios and the clever use of subtle atmospheric elements. It’s a gentle start to the album, but not some much that it fails to assert itself. 

Some rather interesting moments happen in the latter half of the EP, specifically on “Dyr but shchyl.” The piano melody feels slightly plaintive but any trace of mourning is erased by this very odd presentation. It plods along in the lower register as almost cartoonish melodies play out in the higher pitches. It feels like a strange combination of moods that swirl together easily but leave this strange sense of awkwardness in its wake. The album ends with “Valedictory” which seems to have the clearest of moods, settling firmly on a sense of mystery with a piano part that holds the track together but gives space to a monophonic synth that has an almost theremin quality to it. 

Overall, the EP provides an interesting listening experience as Farkhad combines all manner of themes together into a soup of many tastes. For some, the taste may be acquired, but it is guaranteed to satisfy that craving for something novel.