Polytunnel releases his debut album ‘The Word for World is Forest’ on Alien Communications
Made Magnetic and Moot Tapes label boss Polytunnel is a producer and DJ from Kilkenny (Ireland), who has been Glasgow based since making the move over in 2019. Having cut his teeth as resident DJ at Dublin venue The Bernard Shaw for years, after making the leap over to Scotland he soon caught the attention of London-based Childsplay, along with Sub Club resident Domenic Cappello.
Fast forward to 2024 and he has now had a series of well received EPs, so it was really only a matter of time before his debut album would come: working with another fine Scottish imprint ‘Alien Communications’ to make it happen. ‘The Word for World is Forest’ is influenced by the city of Glasgow, showcasing a love for classic Detroit-inspired Electro, UK Techno alongside giving a nod to his influences, straddling Acid, Breakbeat and House that has weaved its way through his work in previous releases. Really finding his feet and refining his sound, Polytunnel recorded the LP in Glasgow over the last year. Putting down a love letter to the city that continues to inspire and energise him.
Over the course of nine tracks, he offers a glimpse into his broad palette of electronic sounds. Taking inspiration from Ursula K Le Guin’s novella of the same name, he examines the themes of destruction, resistance and the devastating impact of imperialism. Springing into action with the rhythmic thunder of ‘Dying of the Light’, lush chords glimmer as thick bass intersects offering a glimpse of the tales to come. Blissfully understated, the track evolves with a neat tinge of acid and twinkling effects that really set the mood. ‘Off Grid’ ramps up the tension with it’s arpeggiated interplay and melancholic chords, as heavy off beat kicks lead the charge. Where ‘Shrub Lyf’ reigns back in the energy with a lovely lightness of touch and ethereal elements, the synth led patter of ‘Paro’ offers equal finesse and soothing surrounds that gently build.
‘Retired Speed Runner’ keeps the flow moving with light touch aesthetics and wispy acidic inflections, all underpinned by crisp breakbeats. The quiet poise and heartfelt tones of ‘Amber Warning’ display an even more emotional side to his work, before the upbeat strings and metronomic pulse of ‘UntArp64’ chime through and bring you back to happier times.
As you get to the penultimate musing of ‘Dopamine Dreamz’, Polytunnel rounds off on the playful breaks and melodies of ‘Sommar’ that place you on a far more upbeat note. A well crafted and thought through collection of music that really plays on subtlety and balance throughout. ‘The Word for World is Forest’ is one of the those LPs that only improves with repeat listening, that should well etch it’s way into collections over time and bolster his reputation as an artist to keep tabs on.
