"The Direct Way To Melancholy" by Benjamin Schoos is an instrumental album designed to evoke nostalgia and introspection. The chamber pop melodies, supported by sumptuous strings, create a luxurious listening experience. Following the orchestral introduction of "Sans voix," the title track stands out with its plaintive piano and plucked strings. Tracks like "I Love You Sea Monster!" are minimalist with cascading piano, while "Scripted Reality" features optimistic arpeggios. "La grande vallée" showcases Christine Ott's Ondes Martenot, and "Murmuration" recalls the reflective moments of Michael Rother. The album concludes with "Droomtuin," a psychedelic collaboration with producer Gilles Martin. (Minimal Compact, Tuxedomoon).