PJ Harvey, Talk Talk, Portishead: Robin Kester talks the tracks that she had On Repeat whilst making her new album, Dark Sky Reserve.
Finessing the alt-rock sound with a unique and ubiquitous touch, rising Dutch artist Robin Kester is a boundary-pushing presence. From the successes of her wonderful 2023 debut album Honeycomb Shades, Kester is set to release a follow-up record next month, 12th September, via Memphis Industries.
For the album, titled Dark Sky Reserve, she partners with revered producer Ali Chant – who counts PJ Harvey and Yard Act amid his portfolio – and progresses her sound into something far more esoteric and reactionary, with the teaser singles so far proving to be cinematic and subtly compelling compositions of depth and character.
Stopping by on route to release, below Kester takes us through her On Repeat picks.
Listen to the latest…
Robin Kester Is On Repeat…
Stereolab – “A Flower Called Nowhere”
I love how textured everything sounds. Totally obsessed with the harpsichord and synths in this track.
PJ Harvey – “The Garden”
There’s a simmering, ominous tension, but it’s also incredibly groovy. And when that piano hits, you’re hooked.
Talk Talk – “New Grass”
One of the most beautiful songs ever made. That guitar at the start sounds like a living creature, and when Mark Hollis starts singing, it’s just otherworldly
Cate Le Bon – “Typical Love”
Minimalistic, everything hits the right spot. Listen once and you’ll be singing the lines ‘typical love’ at random moments for the rest of your life
Beak> – “Secrets”
Listening to this feels like inching towards the edge of a cliff. The bass line in this track is so addictive
Sakamoto x Savid Sylvian – “Bamboo Houses”
Rigid, catchy, a bit surreal. When I listen to this track, I see an ’80s robot doing a stiff, glitchy dance
Air – “Highschool Lover”
Sometimes I feel like I want to live in this song. It’s a whole world of its own. That characteristic Air sound in the high strings and the slightly out-of-tune piano taking the lead, very inspiring
Rozi Plain – “Blink”
This song takes you to a whole different universe, full of fascinating sounds. I love it, it’s so hypnotic!
Portishead – “The Rip”
This is how you build a song. I love how it evolves. Beth’s voice pulls you in and doesn’t let go until the very end
Nabihah Iqbal – “Dreamer”
This song has the most beautiful shimmers. So lush.
Mui Zyu – “Talk To Death”
Really cool, strange melodies and a vibey pulse. Makes me want to do a weird dance
