Esantronics

This is the debut recording of the Dutch-Isan (North-east Thai, also spelled Esan) hybrid music collective, which was recorded at various venues in north-east Tailand and tropical islands in the south. Led by Dutch composer Olivier Schreuder and backed by molam singer and composer Anusara Deechaichana, singer Wominmat Kangjantha and multi-instrumentalist Pumsakseri Sasida, the band rework classic molam songs and traditions with ‘dubbed out hip-hop beats’ called ‘Esantronics’ (hence the title) and traditional molam instrumentation. Deechaichana has also penned some original songs on the album, including the delightful ‘Another Fish’, which relates to her excitement at seeing marine fish (a big deal for landlocked folk from Isan). The band have created a seamless blend of electronics and molam music and to their credit the electronic elements don't steal the show. The standouts include the spacey dub ‘Hongthong’, a tribute to legendary singer Hongthong Dao Udon, the funky ‘Lam Toey Pasom’ and several songs that use the rhythms of the Phu Thai ethnic group, such as ‘Renu Phu Thai Dub’. ‘Kid Hod Ban’ adds a sad lament on the homesickness of Isan people working in faraway Bangkok. A fascinating debut. Highly recommended.