The Magnificent Void
by Jeff Berkwits, Asterism
Spring 1996
Whether the void mentioned in the title refers to the vacuous void of outer space or the 'Transpersonal Void' Roach alludes to in his liner notes may be open to interpretation, but there's no question that this dark, droning collection of eight tunes is astounding. Combining the best of both ambient isolationism and experimental electronics, the artist manages to evoke a marvelous sense of spacial emptiness and exploratory loneliness on these compositions. From the opening cut, "Between the Gray and the Purple," which aimlessly drifts as strange noises seem to fly by, to the title track, with its early crescendo and waxing and waning synthesizers, these works impact upon both one's inner emotions and deepest fears. It should be interesting to experience how these sounds affect one in a crowded venue, as Roach is embarking on a rare tour later this year, but as a solitary affair there's no question that this disc is psychically powerful and stunningly stellar.
by Jeff Berkwits, Asterism
Spring 1996
Whether the void mentioned in the title refers to the vacuous void of outer space or the 'Transpersonal Void' Roach alludes to in his liner notes may be open to interpretation, but there's no question that this dark, droning collection of eight tunes is astounding. Combining the best of both ambient isolationism and experimental electronics, the artist manages to evoke a marvelous sense of spacial emptiness and exploratory loneliness on these compositions. From the opening cut, "Between the Gray and the Purple," which aimlessly drifts as strange noises seem to fly by, to the title track, with its early crescendo and waxing and waning synthesizers, these works impact upon both one's inner emotions and deepest fears. It should be interesting to experience how these sounds affect one in a crowded venue, as Roach is embarking on a rare tour later this year, but as a solitary affair there's no question that this disc is psychically powerful and stunningly stellar.
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Steve Roach 1996 Hearts of Space HS11062 (CD, Poster, Vinyl) Reviewed by Cliff Tuel, Asterism, i/e, Muze, Tucson Citizen, Wired A Magnum Opus of pure oceanic sound and Roach's most sophisticated atmospheric work to date. The final track "Altus", Latin for both "high" and "deep", says much about this work. The most demanding and textural of Roach's work, it has more in common with 20th century avant-garde than other genres. A chilling and beautiful continuous flow of harmonic sound-worlds. Melody and harmony are present throughout in a surreal play of light and dark colors.
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