Momen

The “Sympathetic Resonance” LP by Momen is released on Unheard Of Hope and marks the debut of the London-based duo. Momen consists of Iván Muela (piano, guitar, electronics) and Nat Philipps (saxophone, electronics); in eight movements they explore a field of tension between restraint and catharsis. Sonic reference points range from Bach and Ryuichi Sakamoto to experiences in post-punk bands, giving the pieces an unusual blend of classical melodic lines, jazzy improvisation, and electronically sculpted spaces.

At the center of “Sympathetic Resonance” is the dialogue between saxophone and keys, along with the subtle use of electronics, which generates continuous transformations out of an apparent calm. Small motivic seeds unfold into expansive ambient soundscapes, while targeted interventions shift the perspective and bring out dramatic moments. All compositions were written and performed by Nat Philipps and Iván Muela; Muela handled the recording, mixing was done by Luciano Rossi, and mastering by Rafael Anton Irisarri. With “Sympathetic Resonance,” Unheard Of Hope presents an LP that combines precise contours with open expanses and clearly brings the duo’s musical signature into focus.