Roach+Serries, L. Nerell, M. Jakobsons, G. Bojanek, F. D’Eybastens
In the Shortlist sections, I will mention some of the albums that I enjoyed listening to, but couldn’t find the time (or the right words) for a “full” review for. Still, I think they deserve your attention: use the links to find more info and hear previews.
STEVE ROACH & DIRK SERRIES – LOW VOLUME MUSIC
These two Grandmasters of Ambient music join forces again to create this “introspective musical palette solely dedicated to harmony, integrity and pure beauty.”
“In a world where the noise level of daily life has increased to a fever pitch, this release offers an essential sonic respite from the external distractions. These five delicate sound meditations are built upon a perfect blend of deep ambient characteristics: looping and lush textures and harmonics mixed with subtle, hovering, lattice-like forms. The tracks follow a zen-like flow, bringing the listener’s attention down to a distinct stillness, a single point; gently shifting, sparkling mirror pools of sound are revealed as meditations to reflect upon.”
LOREN NERELL – SLOW DREAM
“Field recordings from the world of sleep” – which prove to be Bali and Java (also the inspiration for many of Nerell’s earlier albums)
“Nerell’s four lengthy tracks are all-encompassing sonic environments primarily forged from extremely processed location recordings made during his trips to Bali. Rich drones and shimmering highlights skirt over the organic textures, processed and layered into subtle, delicate resonant spaces.”