The Line: Red Blood Cells & Righteousness – A disarmingly interesting, immersive album

Brian Dillon’s project The Line stemmed from his collaborative spirit, something he evolved as a member of Meltybrains? Red Blood Cells & Righteousness is emblematic of Dillon’s sense of connection, taking its cue from Julian Gough’s 2018 novel Connect, which references the idea of an ecosystem that serves a greater purpose, while also folding in ideas explored by other artists, such as David Foster Wallace on postmodernism and the panentheistic philosophy of Hegel. The result is a disarmingly interesting, immersive album.

Loah and Fehdah’s voices combine to ominous and beautiful effect on Communion, which is underpinned by a grimy romanticism. Earth Died Streaming with Bad Music Club is glassy and anthemic. The prayerfulness of I Know This Is Water, with Eamonn Dillon, complements Everything We Know, with Lullahush mingling an ambient wash over tender birdsong.

Godknows and Murli bring a verve and furiousness to Patience of Saints, which splinters genres and sounds, bringing to mind someone like Mark B & Blade. The World Told No Lies, with Dan Fox and Nevv, brings a compelling darkness, with pleasing drums and the kind of atmosphere Massive Attack routinely conjures. Collar Bone, with Sorcha Richardson, contains a pleasing delicacy. Light Work, with Ben Bix and Micheál Quinn, is a highlight, with arresting piano that echoes the work of Dustin O’Halloran.