Perhaps We Should Have Smoked The Salmon First is an organic, ambient tapestry hand-crafted by…eh, you know Belgiumites. Stuck between the cross-roads of Germany and France, Belgium's Toman create a blissful vibe that cascades among beautiful brass, subtle percussion, and gentle guitar. Like similar experimental instrumental outfits, Tristeza and Inner Banks, Toman rely on variety and simplicity. The album flows with immediacy and patience. Every element, every instrument is wonderfully orchestrated and placed. "By Then It Was Summer" starts off with a hint of electronic quirkiness, steady drums, a little keyboard, and acoustic guitar; as the tempo quickens the song builds in intensity until the horns signal everyone to join the instrumental onslaught. It's as if a stage is covered in complete darkness and then, slowly and methodically, each band member is lit until the whole stage glows. Toman's sound and aesthetic rely on a methodical and purposeful approach to song craft. There is no improvisation, just the band's methodical placement of everything from keyboards to a barrage of French horn. Each song has its own little style and effect, and even after several listens it's hard to remember what will come next. Perhaps… doesn't seem like much at first but, given the chance, it builds into much, much more.
~ Wes Barker
Release date: January 30, 2007
Buy Album from CD Universe
