Tomaga: The Explorers of British Experimental Music

Tomaga was a London-based experimental music duo known for their hypnotic, rhythm-driven soundscapes that defied easy genre classification. Formed by Tom Relleen and Valentina Magaletti, the group released a prolific and critically acclaimed body of work that cemented their status as vital figures in the UK's avant-garde scene.

Early career

Tomaga emerged from London's fertile experimental music community around 2014. The core duo consisted of multi-instrumentalist Tom Relleen, a veteran of the psychedelic band The Oscillation, and Italian percussionist Valentina Magaletti, whose extensive work included collaborations with Bat For Lashes and Matthew Herbert.

Their early output was characterized by a DIY ethos, with initial releases on cassette and vinyl through independent labels like Hands in the Dark. These works immediately established their signature blend of motorik rhythms, dub techniques, and abstract electronics.

Breakthrough

The year 2017 marked a turning point with the release of their album The Shape of the Dance on the Belgian label Kraak. This record garnered significant critical attention for its cohesive and immersive journey, perfectly capturing their live, improvisation-based energy in a studio setting.

This breakthrough led to wider European touring and established them as a formidable live act. Their prolific pace continued with the album Futura Grotesk in 2019, further refining their pulsating, cinematic approach to instrumental music.

Key tracks

Ritorno — This track from The Shape of the Dance exemplifies their mastery of building tension through repetitive basslines and Magaletti's intricate, ever-evolving percussion.

Futura Grotesk — The title track from their 2019 album is a sprawling, side-long epic that showcases their ability to craft a complete, evolving sonic narrative.

Drumming Through the Rainbow — A later single that highlights their more melodic and accessible side while maintaining a complex, polyrhythmic foundation.

The duo's trajectory was tragically cut short by the passing of Tom Relleen in August 2020. Valentina Magaletti posthumously released their final album, Intimate Immensity, in 2021, which served as a poignant and celebrated conclusion to their collaborative work.

Fans of Tomaga's exploratory rhythm-based sound may also appreciate the work of similar artists from the UK's experimental sphere. Vanishing Twins shares a similar interest in hypnotic grooves and global influences. The Oscillation features Tom Relleen's earlier work in a more psychedelic rock context. Holydrug Couple explores a comparable blend of krautrock and dreamy soundscapes, though from a South American perspective.

Tomaga's innovative catalog has earned them regular rotation on specialist radio programming. Their music is a staple on independent music radio stations and online streams dedicated to avant-garde, post-rock, and experimental electronic genres, where their intricate compositions find a receptive audience.

Listeners can explore the immersive and rhythmic world of Tomaga's experimental music through the radio stations featured on our website. Tune in to onairium.com to discover their groundbreaking tracks as part of our curated programming dedicated to adventurous sonic artists.