In this month's selection, we delve into a diverse array of ambient albums that redefine the boundaries of the genre. Writer and musician Ted Davis curates an eclectic list that spans various influences, from Latin music to IDM and dancehall. Among the standout releases are collaborations between Natural Information Society and Bitchin Bajas, Elijah Jamal Asani’s work inspired by the Grand Canyon, and ezmeralda's somber take on Latin downtempo. Each album brings something unique to the table, showcasing the versatility and innovation within the ambient music scene.
This month saw the release of Totality, a collaborative effort between Chicago-based electroacoustic trio Bitchin Bajas and minimalist avant-jazz quartet Natural Information Society. Recorded during an intense improvisational session, the album blends guimbri, harmonium, bass clarinet, and other unconventional instruments into a mesmerizing soundscape. The result is a rich tapestry that subtly incorporates elements of New Age, kosmische, and raga music. This partnership marks a decade since their first crossover full-length, Automaginary.
Elijah Jamal Asani, known for his hopeful and nuanced approach to music, crafted ,,, as long as i long to memorise your sky ,,,. Created during a residency at the Grand Canyon, the album fuses nocturnal field recordings with guitar, percussion, zither, and piano. Asani’s transcendent style shines through, offering listeners a journey beyond the tangible world and into boundless horizons.
Bogotá-based producer Nicolás Vallejo, under the alias ezmeralda, introduced forever para siempre, an airy exploration of Latin downtempo. Recorded in one take, the album contrasts delicate textures with harsh timbres, creating a dreamlike yet jarring experience. Vallejo’s background in gothic cumbia adds depth to this serene yet unsettling production.
Memoria, a joint project by Mexican violinist Gibrana Cervantes and Colombian artist Nicolás Sánchez (Colombian Drone Mafia), reflects on themes of memory and past experiences. Born out of casual improvisation sessions after meeting in London, the album uses warped field recordings to complement Cervantes’ evocative bowing. The resulting soundscapes evoke a cautious reflection on reminiscence.
Scott Morgan, operating as loscil, presented Lake Fire, a poignant response to climate change's impact on the North American West Coast. Combining dub sonics with enveloping pads, Morgan crafts a sonic landscape that captures both destruction and beauty. This album continues loscil’s tradition of drawing inspiration from the natural world while addressing pressing environmental issues.
The Bratislava-based artist Adam Badí Donoval released a mirror where the image and the mirror wholly coincided, a brooding meditation on hope and time. Featuring guest appearances from Nate Scheible and Adela Mede, the record stays true to Donoval’s shadowy discography. Through dissonant clangs and razor-like swipes, the album explores profound existential themes.
Florian TM Zeisig unveiled Spool, a sensory collaboration with perfumer Angel Paradise. Issued by Glasgow label Somewhere Press, the album captures the carefree essence of life in Bavaria. With mossy swells and quivering tones, Zeisig delivers his most picturesque work to date, enhanced by Paradise’s complementary contributions.
New York City and Texas-based producer Jetty contributed Jetty+, blending ambient, club, and cloud rap elements. Miniature trap beats accompany sine wave synth melodies, creating a humid, sugary atmosphere. Guest features from Organ Tapes, jackzebra, and Ben Bondy further enrich the album’s forlorn desperation.
Taiwan-based artist Imryll’s Obscure Blood & Love, released via Theory Therapy, examines ecological growth cycles. Glazed with a smoky patina, the album leans towards pop sensibilities while maintaining the imprint of ambient dub. This fusion results in a bewitching auditory experience.
XENIA REAPER’s Gambling, issued by INDEX:Records, embraces euphoric and uplifting tones reminiscent of trance’s golden era. Synth textures twitch and burble, replacing traditional drums with grainy beds and white noise. The album’s foggy cohesion ties its dynamic peaks and valleys together seamlessly.
Bristol-Berlin duo Wrecked Lightship offered Drained Strands, a departure from their usual bass-heavy dubstep sound. Instead, rhythmic twitches and boggy effects dominate, achieving an unexpectedly tranquil effect. This album showcases their ability to innovate within the electronic music realm.
Andrea’s Living Room serves as a darker counterpart to his previous work, Due In Color. Swapping jungle influences for two-step beats and formlessness, the album maintains Andrea’s signature unpredictability. With a cover photo resembling a distant UFO, the record transports listeners to a mysterious sonic dimension.
As these albums demonstrate, the ambient music scene continues to evolve, embracing new influences and pushing creative boundaries. Each release offers a distinct perspective, contributing to a vibrant and ever-expanding genre. Whether exploring nature, memory, or emotion, these artists create immersive soundscapes that resonate deeply with listeners worldwide.