Theory Therapy 50: KMRU
Music for train journeys, scored by KMRU.
Therapy Therapy 50 was recorded on a train from Basel to Berlin by one of our all-time favourite artists, Joseph Kamaru aka KMRU.
Theory Therapy listeners will most likely be very familiar with the Berlin-based producer’s extensive and lauded catalogue already. The Nairobi sound artist has been pivotal in broadening ambient music’s terrain over the last few years, both in the way it is produced and what it can be (for one thing, that it should never be reduced to a single sound or concept; great ambient is many, often contradictory, things all at once.)
His mix contains all of the hallmarks that make his music so engaging. It’s a masterclass in tone and texture, delicately moving between a kaleidoscope of sounds by some of electronic music’s most interesting creators — a fitting way to celebrate the 50th episode in the series. Thank you Joseph for this mix.
Hey Joseph. Thanks for contributing the 50th mix in the series. How are you today?
Hey gary, thanks for the invite. I know it's taken a while but happy to share the mix. I'm feeling so calm today — feels like I hibernated this week.
What was the last song you listened to?
Listening to big thief now and the last song is titled orange )) just love its mood.
Where is your favourite place to listen to music?
I enjoy listening in my studio/or the kitchen table.
Outside of music, what inspires you?
I love taking pictures of random things.
Share with us an album you've been enjoying recently.
Not an album but I love the new dj lostboi ep - MUSIC FOR LANDINGS and also new Nyokabi Kariuki’s album - FEELING BODY.
Can you tell us a little about the mix? Where did you record it?
I made this mix on a train journey from Basel to Berlin (I love making mixes on trains). It always feels like I'm scoring the landscape as I move.
Where would you recommend listening to it?
Probably somewhere while on commute.
Are there any tracks you’ve used in the mix that are special or significant to you?
The first track Tor — it’s an old track I wrote and currently released on my new self release album glim. I recall when I wrote the track and still feels special now. I also appreciate Perila’s track, and all the others as well, although I always find myself using her music in most of my mixes. She's so eclectic with her work.
Theory Therapy mixes are about sharing the music that you personally find therapeutic, cathartic or restorative. What does that mean for you?
I guess for me it's having the agency to slow down and be still. Also listening plays a role in all of these.
Is there a particular album or piece of music that you find yourself returning to for similar reasons?
I’d probably play Nala Sinephro’s Space 1.8, or Peel.
Tell us something exciting that's coming up in your life, music or otherwise.
Well, I'm finishing my masters soon, excited for this but also looking forward to share all the music I have + exciting collaborations coming this year or next.
