7/10

Throughout these last few years, emerging artist and producer Agniy has established themselves as one of the more elusive and progressive names on the rise. Combining this broad and adventurous approach to production with some otherworldly aesthetics as often as possible, their tenure to date has been filled with this beautifully alluring grandeur that always seems to build on what has come before. And after plenty of experimentation and innovation over the years, they are back to deliver their eagerly-awaited debut EP 'Gardarika: Book One', a collection that hones that unbridled spirit once again.

Adopting more of that rich and blossoming texture their material has been renowned for, 'Gardarika: Book One' finds them in a brilliantly passionate spirit once again. Described as a "musical journey through the ancient world of Gardarika", this new five-track collection channels a brilliantly diverse array of instrumentation to bring this new vision to life. Blending a heady mix of Middle Eastern, North African, and alt-Western influences all under one roof, Agniy find themselves in a strong and explorative guise throughout this new release.

While plenty has already been said about their inventive endeavours over the years, 'Gardarika: Book One' feels like a bold and lively addition to their ever-evolving catalogue right now. Hoarding such a varied and enigmatic approach to their sound, Agniy remains just as dynamic and compelling as ever before.