Shrine - Somnia
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Hristo Gospodinov’s music is getting more and more like that of Ulf Soderberg (also as Sephiroth), and I don’t mean the sub-genre, but rather the healthy predictability of the two gentlemen. Predictable to the point, that one could actually consider their music as unoriginal, if not for the fact that each time it is presented from a different angle, changing the feeling significantly. This results in the albums becoming a part of a larger creation, at the same time preserving their unique character. ‘Somnia’ is exactly that kind of an album, which also ultimately assured me that whatever Gospodinov creates is gold.
In comparison with ‘The Final Asylum’ (Shrine’s previous LP), the latest of Gospodinov’s pieces is more serene. ‘TFA"s industrial and dark ambient moments, as well as its leading theme of a organic world turned mechanical, contributed to its rather grim atmosphere. ‘Somnia’ has no instances of such bleak feelings or visions. The music is evidently lighter, yet still full of character. Deep backgrounds, ethereal and acoustic sounds are more than enough to create images, quite opposite to those present on the previous LP.
The very atmosphere of the production is more ‘organic’ than ever before. Flowing water, roaring waves, bird’s twitting, these are just a few of the samples used on the album, which in my opinion are responsible for the bulk of the atmosphere. This particular element of Shrine’s music reminds me of Tetsu Inoue’s productions, though not utilized to the same level as on Inoue’s albums.
However, not only the background counts. The electronic side of ‘Somnia’ works perfectly with the rest of the components, adding to the feeling of depth and space alike. Truly, listening to the album encourages visions of great outdoors, which might actually work as a fine substitute if someone is unable to leave their four walls.
Yet again I find myself up against the wall, with Hristo Gospodinov holding all the arguments, and frankly I’m quite comfortable with that. Another fantastic album of his only strengthens his position on my list as one of the most interesting ambient projects out there. Can’t think of a better recommendation.
Tracklist:
01. The Grand Design
02. Immersion
03. Lost Beauty
04. Somnia
05. The Iron Water
06. Dream Captured In Stone
07. Ruins
08. On The Edge Of The Void
Other articles:
In comparison with ‘The Final Asylum’ (Shrine’s previous LP), the latest of Gospodinov’s pieces is more serene. ‘TFA"s industrial and dark ambient moments, as well as its leading theme of a organic world turned mechanical, contributed to its rather grim atmosphere. ‘Somnia’ has no instances of such bleak feelings or visions. The music is evidently lighter, yet still full of character. Deep backgrounds, ethereal and acoustic sounds are more than enough to create images, quite opposite to those present on the previous LP.
The very atmosphere of the production is more ‘organic’ than ever before. Flowing water, roaring waves, bird’s twitting, these are just a few of the samples used on the album, which in my opinion are responsible for the bulk of the atmosphere. This particular element of Shrine’s music reminds me of Tetsu Inoue’s productions, though not utilized to the same level as on Inoue’s albums.
However, not only the background counts. The electronic side of ‘Somnia’ works perfectly with the rest of the components, adding to the feeling of depth and space alike. Truly, listening to the album encourages visions of great outdoors, which might actually work as a fine substitute if someone is unable to leave their four walls.
Yet again I find myself up against the wall, with Hristo Gospodinov holding all the arguments, and frankly I’m quite comfortable with that. Another fantastic album of his only strengthens his position on my list as one of the most interesting ambient projects out there. Can’t think of a better recommendation.
Tracklist:
01. The Grand Design
02. Immersion
03. Lost Beauty
04. Somnia
05. The Iron Water
06. Dream Captured In Stone
07. Ruins
08. On The Edge Of The Void
Other articles:
- Immundus - Insomnia - 2015-04-12 (Music reviews)
- Shrine - The Final Asylum - 2012-04-05 (Music reviews)
- Lingua Fungi - Flowery Dreams - 2011-10-23 (Music reviews)
