Astrel K blends sonically adventurous sources (film music, post-rock, indie electronica) with intimate vocals and melodies to craft a sound that's both comforting and challenging at once. The solo project of Ulrika Spacek member Rhys Edwards enjoyed the patronage of Stereolab, whose revived Duophonic Super 45s label issued the project's debut album, Flickering i, in 2022. In 2018 Edwards moved to Stockholm, Sweden with time spent writing and recording music for his own edification. The first result to emerge from the sessions was the 2020 single "You Could If You Can" for the reconstituted Duophonic Super 45s label. Run by Laetitia Sadier and Tim Gane of Stereolab, plus their manager Martin Pike, the label released many influential indie and post-rock singles and albums in the 1990s, and Edwards' work slotted in nicely. Following a two-year gap for more recording, the debut Astrel K album, Flickering i, was released in April 2022. Featuring a more song-based approach than his work in Ulrika Spacek, the record contrasts calmly experimental sounds with tightly bound melodies and thoughtful lyrics. Words: Tim Sendra