Škofja Loka – Ljubim Ti Dušu LP (Geenger Records, Pop Depresija)

In a modern era where experimentation and dodging boundaries of music genres thrive, Škofja Loka emerges as an innovation ensemble with “Ljubim Ti Dušu,” their debut full-length album. Released this year through a collaborative effort between Geenger Records and Pop Depresija, this Belgrade-based outfit delivers a musical odyssey that defies categorization, embracing a diverse array of influences ranging from alternative rock to funk, groove to hip hop, but you can also hear a subtle touch of reggae music.

As soon as you press play, it’s more than clear that Škofja Loka is not satisfied with being confined by genre conventions. Lead vocalists take center stage, their voices weaving effortlessly between low, mid, and high registers, infusing each lyric with a tangible sense of emotion and conviction. Whether delivering rapid-fire rhymes or soaring melodies, their outstanding vocal maneuvers will immediately draw you into Škofja Loka’s rich and luxurious sonic universe. But it’s not just the vocals that shine on “Ljubim Ti Dušu.” The guitar work is equally impressive, with players expertly shifting between clean, semi-distorted, and fully distorted acrobatics, creating an engaging and mesmerizing backdrop. From delicate chord progressions over so many leads, themes, melodies, harmonies, and other sonic exhibitions, the guitarists demonstrate their skills, infusing each track with an irresistible blend of melody and aggression. The brass section, piano, synths, sequencers, ukulele, and additional percussions help out guitars shaping this marvelous audio universe.

The rhythm section backs the guitars with the force of a sledgehammer, yet possesses a subtlety and finesse that belies its power. The bass lines are deep and resonant, providing a substantial foundation for the remainder of the band to build upon, while the drumming is nothing short of virtuosic, masterfully shifting between intricate rhythms and thunderous fills. Tracks like “Dobro Veče” and “Nikad Niko” exemplify the band’s ability to integrate disparate influences into a cohesive whole, while the anthemic “Osmeli Se” serves as a rallying cry for listeners to embrace their true selves. But perhaps the album’s standout moment comes in the form of “Daniel,” a haunting ballad that showcases the band’s versatility and emotional depth. Of course, there are more excellent tracks on this fine piece of sonic artistry, and you should pay attention to the entire material.

In addition to its musical merits, “Ljubim Ti Dušu” is also a visual feast, with artwork that harkens back to the heyday of tribal, ethno, and world music traditions. The LP version of the album, housed in a high-quality record sleeve, is a collector’s dream, offering fans a tangible connection to Škofja Loka’s sonic universe. “Ljubim Ti Dušu” is a tour de force of modern music, but it also brings a touch of nostalgia by delivering the late nineties and early noughties Belgrade alternative rock scene to the table. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of alternative rock or simply a lover of good music, this album demands your attention. Head to Geenger Records or Pop Depresija‘s web stores and experience Škofja Loka’s groundbreaking debut for yourself.