Marco Chloca and Alejandro Cohen are Languis. After migrating from Argentina to Plug Research central in Los Angeles, back in 1996 clutching spare possessions, they soon revised long-cherished dreams of becoming rock stars, turning on to Richard D.James and Autechre. Fast forward to the present, here they seem to fuse these sounds of hopes, dreams and discovery into their fifth album, The Four Walls. In previous incarnations, Languis combined live instrumentation with electronic music, always placing a stronger emphasis on things digital. On The Four Walls, a new balance is established, placing live drums from Chris Hathwell of The Moving Units and Paul Larson of Strictly Ballroom's guitar centre stage. The album really begins to fly with contributions from some very noteworthy LA based artists, such as Jimmy Tamborello of the excellent Dntel and The Postal Service and Nobody. "Never Now" is a perfect example of where Languis is going, mixing subtle electronic elements, with beloved music akin to the holy manc trinity of The Stone Roses, Joy Division or the New Order of the eighties. A highly persuasive blend of classic songwriting with studio experimentation - Languis music is unfailingly melodic, capable of tranquil ambience next to a barely suppressed roar.
