1980 was one of those rare moments in musical history when a whole movement spanning several countries locked into place. Without the internet and instant communication, various musicians tapped into a shared zeitgeist, formulating a sound that commonly became known as darkwave. Martin Bowes and Julia Waller of Attrition in England and Usher San in France forged their own paths which, after 45 years of exploration, finally converge as Klaendestine. Pooling their considerable talents, they’ve produced an EP in We Shall Share that casts a dark spell over the listener and signposts a bright future.

Those who feel a pull towards the dark side of life will immediately feel right at home with opening track ‘La Passerelle’. Without feeling at all cluttered, it introduces themes and motifs that will echo throughout this EP, from Usher San’s industrial-flavoured keyboards and synths to Marin Bowes demonic growl and Julia Weller’s ethereal wail. As with many groups who operate as a trio, Klaendestine create a sound that is far bigger than their constituent parts; it’s a nowhere ending sky or a brutalist landscape stretching as far as the eye can see. Like Godflesh’s Streetcleaner, the soundscapes We Shall Share are of something so huge and expansive, they can barely be comprehended. The following ‘Black Mass’ is indeed like being at a black magic ritual; Martin’s half-spoken words are like a strange incantation whilst Julia seemingly channels the voices of recently departed souls as if conducting a séance at an Ouija board. It’s dark and discombobulating, and will insidiously work its way under your skin and into your psyche and, like an evil spirit invading your house, won’t be in a hurry to leave.

Due to the multilayered nature of We Shall Share, this is the type of release that will reward repeat spins as subtle nuances buried within the mix slowly bubble to the surface and tickle the eardrums. ‘Angels Of Fire’, for instance, marries Krautrock beats to Indian drums whilst simultaneously ushering in space rock vibes. Stitching this flux together are Julia’s vocals, wending their way through the songs like a ghost flitting through gravestones on a moonlit night.

A long overdue collaboration between these masters of the dark arts, We Shall Share serves up six shots of musical alchemy. And proves that good things do come to those who wait.

• We Shall Share is available now (from here).

Track List:

1. La Passerelle
2. We Share
3. Black Mass
4. Angels Of Fire
5. The Watcher
6. In Pectore