Unfurl

Released in 2019, Unfurl is the second full-length studio album from Australian artist RY X (Ry Cuming). Following the success of Dawn, this record further refines his signature blend of 'alt-folk' and 'ambient techno.' Recorded largely in isolation, the album leans heavily into the contrast between the physical and the digital. The production is characterized by its use of space; Cuming utilizes long-tail reverbs and delays to create a sense of 'ambient pop' that feels architectural. Critics noted the album's move toward more rhythmic, beat-driven structures compared to his debut, though it remains firmly in the realm of minimalist singer-songwriter music. The inclusion of tracks like 'Mallorca' and 'Coven' showcases a cinematic quality, while the ambient bookends 'Body' and 'Sun' emphasize the album's intent as a cohesive, immersive experience rather than a collection of singles. It stands as a definitive example of the 'quiet is the new loud' movement in late-2010s indie music.