Formed by Atsu Nagayama, who wrote and arranged all the material on Sur La Mer’s debut EP, the group features a range of musicians, including June Of 44’s Fred Erskine on trumpet.

Fusing, rock, classical and jazz, Prelude To The Sea comprises four ambient instrumental tracks that wind softly around film noir sets after everyone else has gone home. My only complaint, perhaps, would be that the music doesn’t play with dynamics enough; it suggests an occasionally bumpy ride but never takes you on it. But as an opening gambit, there’s little not to like.

Label: Thirty Ghosts
Website: www.thirtyghostsrecords.com
Release date: 16th April 2007

Tracklist:

1. Adagio
2. Lento
3. Andante
4. Allegro