Sonic explorers are pushing boundaries in 2023. From soft power to ambient electronica, musicians like Ezra Feinberg and Astrid Sonne are creating captivating sounds.
Ezra Feinberg’s recent release is a prime example of the artist’s unique approach. Subtracting “rock” elements from his previous work, he creates therapeutic pieces that blend psychedelic sounds with playful minimalism. His album features hypnotic kosmiche rock, shimmering ambient house, and more.
Astrid Sonne, on the other hand, brings twitchy R&B beats to her experimental odysseys. Her latest LP of edits and remixes showcases a range of styles, from heavy dub territory to gentle meditations. The Danish viola player’s work is both unhinged and soothing, making for an intriguing listening experience.
Laura Misch’s Sample the Earth is another album that defies expectations. By reworking her previous release with a largely acoustic band, she transforms the track into an intense piece of chamber music. The result is a melancholic sonic exploration of the natural world.
David Crowell’s Point/Cloud is a masterclass in minimalism. The New York multi-instrumentalist weaves together different styles, from junkyard minimalism to baroque flamenco, creating a rich and harmonically complex sound.
Carlos Nino & Friends’ Placenta is a chaotic yet captivating album. This Los Angeles-based percussionist brings together an eclectic group of collaborators, resulting in a hypnotic and disorienting experience.
Daniel Inzani’s Selected Worlds is a triple album that defies conventions. The self-taught pianist and composer creates a unified series of suites, each with a strong sense of narrative cohesion and musical clarity.
Michelle Moeller’s Late Morning experiments with analogue synth technology, creating warped and ethereal sounds. Her work integrates classical music with experimental techniques, resulting in intriguing textures and drone.
Nala Sinephro’s Endlessness is a dreamy suite that showcases her unique blend of spiritual jazz, space-age electronica, and ambient music. The album features top UK jazz performers and BBC Radiophonic Workshop collaborations.
Lastly, Damian Dalla Torre’s I Can Feel My Dreams takes listeners on a sonic journey inspired by field recordings of the natural world. With its shimmering meditations and New Age-inspired soundscapes, this album is sure to transport listeners to another realm.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/music/2024/dec/18/10-best-contemporary-albums-of-2024