Experimental electronic artist and producer Arhkota returns with his third album for Static Discos, the aptly titled ‘Benti’. Deeply personal and evocative, ‘Benti’ is an evocative journey through shifting moods and ethereal sonic textures that sees soulful moments collide beautifully with sonic melodies. The title itself is a touching tribute to ‘My Daughter’ in Moroccan dialects, honouring Lubna Maher, Arhkota’s daughter, and the album's key collaborator and vocalist.
A dynamic listening experience where music transcends boundaries and finds new dreamlike territories, ‘Benti’ invites the audience to experience life's complexities alongside Arhkota, sharing the weight of those moments. Throughout, Arhkota expands his sonic palette by enlisting collaborators on saxophones, trumpets, and clarinets, adding new layers of depth to his already intricate soundscapes.
What sets ‘Benti’ apart is Arhkota's remarkable dedication to capturing raw, organic sounds. Acoustic instruments like harps, handpan, organ, piano, kalimba, and even toys were recorded directly on his cell phone. Arhkota’s own mixing further emphasizes this natural aesthetic, while minimal compression and a focus on pre-master/EQ rather than polished perfection lend the album a sense of immediacy.
Of course, some elements in the album were left with a more traditional treatment. Lubna's haunting vocals, along with the drums and bass, were recorded with care, forming a natural-feeling foundation for the album's more experimental moments.
‘Benti’ is a testament to the power of collaboration and sonic exploration. It's an album that invites you to dream, to feel deeply, and to appreciate the beauty in imperfection.
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