Kedr Livanskiy - Myrtus Myth (Swamp Pearl Vinyl)

The transformation of history into myth renders personal experiences universal, a process central to the music of Russian producer Yana Kedrina, known as Kedr Livanskiy. On her fifth album, Myrtus Myth, she crafts an experimental pop journey inspired by mythologies both personal and public, blending esotericism with narrative depth. Livanskiy’s music has always been steeped in mystery, from the ethereal synths of her debut January Sun to the spiritual harmonies of Liminal Soul. With Myrtus Myth, she ventures further, drawing parallels to her sophomore album Ariadna while expanding her sonic palette with producer Flaty, known for his futuristic, genre-defying work. Together, they transcend dance structures, integrating live instruments and influences ranging from vaporwave to Kate Bush.

 The album’s highlights include “Anna,” a Fleetwood Mac-inspired pop elegy for a lost friend, and “Purple Sadness,” where crunchy synths evoke early 2010s cloud rap. Tracks like “Agata Dreams” channel ‘90s electro-pop, while “Spades on Hearts” delivers an anthemic call to arms with marching drums and soaring vocals. Livanskiy’s lyrics, written in Russian, offer a hero’s journey over 11 tracks, using myths like Orpheus to explore the enduring power of art.

 Though stylistically diverse, the album maintains cohesion through its mythical narrative. The haunting closer, “Kali-Yuga,” laments a lost city in delicate harmonies, leaving listeners in a dream-like haze. “The last few years have been difficult for many,” Livanskiy reflects. “This album explores pain through the mythical and otherworldly.” Myrtus Myth is not a tragedy but a story of resilience, urging listeners to find humanity within myth. While its imagined worlds fade, Livanskiy’s work reminds us that the real world, and the time we have in it, remains.

1. Orpheus
2. Farewell
3. Anna
4. Night Trains
5. Zver
6. Spades on Hearts
7. Purple Sadness
8. Agata Dreams
9. Smoke and Ashes
10. Easy Rider
11. Kali-Yuga