Ambient2 by #NAME? explores the world of ambient music with a sonically diverse offering that leans into the artist’s melancholic, emotionally resonant roots. This track is #NAME?’s first foray into ambient sound. You feel that sense of discovery flourishing as the track grows. That is not to say that it feels novice or unfinished, only that a sense of excitement builds from the beginning, reflecting the burgeoning vision through the track.
Something about the way the song opens reminded me of Radiohead’s production style. These opening moments reminded me of All I Need from In Rainbows. I think the depth and constantly evolving texture of the synth, combined with its use of ethereal high notes, made that connection.
Furthermore, the smattering of high notes in subtle, ethereal motifs reminded me of True Love Waits. It is telling that this track evokes the most introspective songs from an already very introspective artist.
As the track develops, at around the one-minute and three-minute mark, its tone switches from melancholic to sinister. These sections hang the listener on these long, uneasy, low synth notes that turn the composition dark. In these moments, the ethereal, high-register synths take a step back. It feels as if the vibe of the track has become so malicious that it would be jarring to find that peaceful melancholy again. However, somehow, the song resolves and finds its way back as the higher register synths make their way back into the composition.
Ambient2 utilises this subtle vignette of dust and crackle over several attributes. This choice is especially noticeable during the quiet parts of the composition. The effects felt so natural and effortless that I kept pausing to check that the sounds were coming from the track, not the environment around me.
In terms of developing a unique, ambient soundscape, #NAME? has stuck the landing. This rich mix of highs and lows combined with evolving sonic texture and mood has created something special.
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