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Jan 03, 2017 Issue # 59 - 15th Anniversary By Charles Steinberg

The latest ambient work from sound wizard Brian Eno is one long examination of the spaces in between. The practical intention appears to be to hang on to high range note accents long enough to lull you into a gravity free zone. Trails of orb like key impressions actually make up the movement’s body, spreading into foggy fields. Atmosphere is paramount. Just as these ambient brushstrokes wane into the ether, a careful cluster is introduced, and the vapors of all co-mingle at last to form a mesospheric layer of almost imperceptible humming. It may be read as criticism but perhaps the most apt characterization of this 54-minute piece, other than its given title, is to promote it as something that would be an immensely effective accompaniment to meditation (or a massage or yoga for that matter).

For those familiar with Eno, this prolonged passage will recall Music for Airports and most recently Lux, but drawn out to the faintest traces. These vacuous, minimal fields linger even longer as the piece nears its end and it’s then that you recognize Eno’s concealed purpose of manipulation. This sleight of hand belongs only to those composers like Eno, who have spent enough time with their agents of music to know all their little secrets. This period of Eno’s has been reflective indeed and the trap doors keep opening to wider dimensions. (www.brian-eno.net)

Author rating: 7.5/10