Here it is, the last post on this blog my fourth and final best of list. The criteria is fairly simple relying on twenty (+ three honourable mentions) releases I liked. No splitting into genre styles or ranking them numerically. Just simply the art and where to buy it. It's safe to say 2020 has … Continue reading Best of 2020 and farewell.
May – Pt. 2.
For the second round up of releases from the month of May we have a diverse assortment of artists. John Hayes "The Last Best Place' sees Minneapolis- based pianist, John Hayes, return with his second full-length release. Inspired by the unexpected loss of a friend along with moving into a new studio space, 'The Last … Continue reading May – Pt. 2.
A Bunch of Labels Pt2.
At this point in time supporting small labels is important. With what is going on in the world including lock down, isolating and in some places institutions like the post office closing their doors, music is one of the things can provide an escape from ‘the real world’. So, I have done this post, … Continue reading A Bunch of Labels Pt2.
Archives – An Interview With Agus Mena.
For this post, the latest in the series of label interviews, I caught up with Agus Mena of Archives. Mena who also records as Warmth and SVLBRD, runs the label in parallel with the Faint imprint. Both labels have a strong visual identity with the musical component being equally as memorable making for well rounded, … Continue reading Archives – An Interview With Agus Mena.
Warmth – Life.
Archives, the Spanish ambient label run by Agustín Mena aka Warmth since 2015 is quite possibly the most visually satisfying thanks to the work of Alexander Kopatz. Coupled with the mastering jobs of Rafael Anton Irisarri, Taylor Deupree, Ian Hawgood amongst others, as well as artists such as Warmth, Hotel Neon, David Cordero, Pepo Galán … Continue reading Warmth – Life.
Various – Sleeplaboratory2.0 / Heights.
"The idea was originally came about after our label owner Harry and his wife had a baby daughter, Isla. Harry curated a full-length compilation to help soothe his daughter to sleep and whilst Isla hasn’t needed much of a helping hand where sleep is concerned, he was keen to continue this project as a … Continue reading Various – Sleeplaboratory2.0 / Heights.
Norvik/ Memory Drawings/ Robert Farrugia.
With the year and decade over, I am attempting to play catch up before the new year really hits. This post features four distinctly different styles from the four corners of the world - Norvik (Hong Kong), Memory Drawings (UK/US) and Robert Farrugia (Malta). All have their own special kind of beauty. "Occasionally, we need … Continue reading Norvik/ Memory Drawings/ Robert Farrugia.
Hotel Neon – Vanishing Forms.
Philadelphia's Hotel Neon are a bit of an anomaly in the current underground ambient scene. When you think of Ambient musicians you tend to think of solo projects, rather than a group per se. They are also a working live band, with both and domestic and European tours in the near future, which is again … Continue reading Hotel Neon – Vanishing Forms.