Audiopile Review: Thankful that the folks over at Stroom have repressed the critical second LP from Dutch outfit Voice Actor, which was an instant sell-out upon release earlier this year, and now we finally have enough copies to list it here. Ostensibly now a solo project helmed by Noa Kurzweil after the departure of Levi Lanser, she adds the mysterious Welsh producer known as Squu into the fold to share in production duties. A little research into Squu’s background doesn’t reveal much but a string of digital-only Bandcamp singles, but hearing his weighty, dub-wise and murky ambient-techno productions, you can easily spot his contributions to Lust. His presence makes for more of a lateral shift than you might think, Kurzweil’s raison dêtre of submerged-pop and stripped-down trip-hop are still intact, but Squu pushes the noir textures further with flickering beats and offset rhythms that give things a bit more of a pulse this time around. Lust (1) also veers into the nocturnal zones that the 3XL/West Mineral crew has been favouring as of late, drawing comparisons to last year’s now oft-referenced full length from Naemi but also the wormhole-pop from Shinetiac that dropped just recently. It’s a refreshing cross-pollination among the dream-pop spectrum but deconstructed with a gauzy webbing of succulent glitch and ear-tingling coos, the heavy-lidded vocal presence of Kurzweil delivering her ghostly kisses throughout. As enamored as we were (and still are!) with Voice Actor’s epic 100+ track debut and it’s subsequent vinyl comp, Fake Sleep, Lust (1) has got it beat.

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Farming, often associated with toil and drudgery, can also be a surprisingly sensual and playful activity. The rhythm of the seasons, the tactile experience of working the land, and the shared sense of accomplishment can all contribute to a heightened sense of intimacy and pleasure. Consider the act of planting seeds. The gentle touch of fingers on delicate seedlings, the anticipation of growth, and the nurturing care required can create a deeply satisfying and sensual experience.

Harvesting, too, can be a sensual affair, as one plucks ripe fruits and vegetables from the earth, feeling their warmth and succulence. Beyond the physical aspects, farming can also foster emotional intimacy. Couples can work together in the garden, sharing laughter, sweat, and a sense of shared purpose. The feeling of accomplishment that comes from growing one’s own food can also strengthen bonds and create a sense of shared pride.