A Million Keys

Cyrnai

I recently discovered the late 80s releases by Cyrnai, courtesy of Mutant Sounds and Shards of Beauty. Cyrnai was a primarily electronic solo project by California-based artist and musician Carolyn Fok. Previous to Cyrnai, Fok was a member of Crucifix, Trial, and State of Mind. Imagine a more psychedelic Judy Nylon with an ample dosing of Cluster.

Charred Blossoms (1985)

This LP is Fok’s first release as Cyrnai on Mind Matter Records. Less reliant on electronics than her subsequent albums; guitar, bells, flute, piano and saxophone appear and disappear throughout. Murky spacey dense.

Listen to Cyrnai + Waydom

Download Charred Blossoms (1985)

Parts of the Insomniac Wheel (1986)

This cassette was released on the Ladd-Frith label. Thick atmospheric repetitions overlayed by distorted vocals form the core of the recording.

Download Parts of the Insomniac Wheel (1986)

To Subtle Drive (1990)

Another cassette, To Subtle Drive is the most electronic of all the releases. The distinct influence of Indian rhythmic patterns would set this apart from an easy association with Chris and Cosey.

Listen to Cyrnai + 5 To Subtle-Drive

Download To Subtle Drive (1990)

Alteration. Transposition. Disturbance. Phantom melodic ghosts and harmonies created with processors. Hybrid samples and unconventional instruments. Subtle vocal nuances and gestural moments suggest life substances. Combining and centrifuging mixed feelings are converted into this world of inventive music, self-reflecting. Technical and emotional properties must pair, and preparation is ready for impact. – Carolyn Fok (from Cassette Mythos)