NTTR - No Time to Review

Shards is a compelling collection of compositions originally crafted for various film and television soundtracks over the past five years, including works like Infinity Pool , The North Water , Luzifer , and La Tour . Despite their disparate origins, the tracks coalesce into a cohesive auditory journey that traverses Hecker's signature ambient landscapes. The album oscillates between haunting drones, fractured melodies, and cinematic swells, creating an atmosphere that is both unsettling and beautiful. Critics have noted the album's ability to evoke a wide range of emotions, with Pitchfork describing it as "part sci-fi noir, part android tearjerker" . Shards stands as a testament to Hecker's mastery in crafting immersive soundscapes that linger long after the final note fades. Pitchfork: Tim Hecker: Shards Album Review Bandcamp: Tim Hecker – Shards AllMusic: Shards - Tim Hecker | Album Genre : Ambient Country : Canada Final Verdict: 70% (Very Good...

Time Indefinite marks a profound evolution in William Tyler's musical journey, diverging from his earlier Americana-infused guitar work into a realm of ambient and experimental soundscapes. The album is characterized by its use of lo-fi textures, tape loops, and found sounds, creating an atmosphere that is both haunting and introspective. Critics have noted the album's ability to evoke a sense of impermanence and nostalgia, with tracks like "Cabin Six" and "Concern" blending distorted noise with delicate guitar melodies. The Line of Best Fit praises the album as "humbly majestic anthems for our anxious age" , while Pitchfork highlights its exploration of memory and loss through "ghostly, deteriorating production" . Overall, Time Indefinite stands as a testament to Tyler's willingness to push the boundaries of his artistry, offering listeners a deeply emotional and immersive experience. Pitchfork: William Tyler: Time Indefini...

A Necessary Escape marks M83's return to cinematic composition, offering a soundscape that complements the high-octane visuals of the Dakar: Race Against the Desert documentary. Anthony Gonzalez, alongside collaborators Joe Berry and Clément Libes, crafts a journey through ambient textures and synth-driven melodies. Tracks like "Strike Machine" and "Artificial Infinity" blend atmospheric layers with rhythmic pulses, reflecting the tension and exhilaration of the Dakar Rally. The album's structure, bookended by the three-part title track, provides a cohesive narrative arc. Listeners have praised its ability to evoke emotion and movement without the need for visuals, highlighting M83's strength in creating immersive auditory experiences. Stereogum: M83 Announce Soundtrack Album 'A Necessary Escape' Northern Transmissions: M83 Releases New Track "A Necessary Escape" iMusic: M83 | A Necessary Escape (Dakar Chronicles Soundtra...

Hekla's Turnar envelops listeners in a haunting soundscape, blending theremin, cello, and church organ to craft an atmosphere of desolation and introspection. Recorded partially in a medieval castle tower, the album evokes the solitude of a night watch, with tracks like "Gráminn" introducing percussive elements that intensify its brooding ambiance. Hekla redefines the theremin's role, shifting it from a novelty to a central, expressive voice in her compositions. While the album's somber tones may challenge some listeners, its rich textures and emotional depth offer a rewarding experience for those seeking experimental soundscapes Hekla ~ Turnar - A Closer Listen Turnar | Hekla - Bandcamp Hekla - Turnar - User Reviews - Album of The Year Theremin specialist Hekla announces new album, Turnar - The Line of Best Fit Turnar - Hekla | Album - AllMusic Genre : Ambient Country : Iceland Final Verdict: 61% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 151th / 212 Highlight : Ól...

Not Around But Through is the latest album by Portland-based experimental musician Randall Taylor, known as Amulets. Released on February 21, 2025, via Beacon Sound, the album delves into themes of acceptance and introspection, exploring the emotional journey of confronting trauma and vulnerability. Taylor employs his signature use of handmade cassette tape loops and live guitar processing to craft immersive soundscapes that oscillate between gentle, meandering passages and explosive, cathartic crescendos. Tracks like "Lifelike," featuring vocals from Madeline Johnston (Midwife), pulsate with post-shoegaze energy, while "Lowercase Letters" incorporates the rich tones of Daniel Kublick's saxophone, adding depth to the album's sonic palette. Overall, Not Around But Through stands as a testament to Amulets' ability to transform personal experiences into universally resonant auditory art, offering listeners a cathartic and hopeful journey through sound. So...

"HEAL" is an electroacoustic ambient record influenced by 1990s and 2000s new age music. The album features six tracks with a loopy and meditative nature, incorporating field recordings taken in Japan. The compositions are rich with vaporous synthesizer pads, gentle chimes, and slow rhythms, creating dreamy, timeless soundscapes. The final track, "end," lasting over 18 minutes, epitomizes the album's engrossing and infinite quality. Buttechno Pitchfork Genre : Ambient Country : Germany/UK Final Verdict: 60% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 29th / 43 Highlight : path Made me think of: Brian Eno Steve Roach Biosphere #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #Ambient #PavelMilyakov&LucasDupuy #Germany/UK #LP #Album #release  

Actress, the moniker of British electronic musician Darren J. Cunningham, released his tenth studio album, Statik , on June 7, 2024, via Smalltown Supersound. Composed during an "extensive flow state," the album presents a subdued and introspective exploration of ambient and experimental electronic soundscapes. Critics have noted that Statik evokes a sense of "dread-filled anticipation," with its soft and unsettling compositions creating an atmosphere of tension and unease. The album's minimalist approach has been described as Actress's most accessible work to date, offering a more subdued experience compared to his previous releases. While some reviewers suggest that the album may not introduce novel elements for long-time listeners, its ambient textures and meditative qualities contribute to a cohesive and immersive listening experience. Overall, Statik is considered a testament to Cunningham's ability to craft evocative electronic music that resonat...

Röyksopp's Nebulous Nights offers a serene, ambient reinterpretation of their earlier Profound Mysteries trilogy. Recorded live, the album features collaborations with artists like Alison Goldfrapp, Susanne Sundfør, and Astrid S, weaving ethereal soundscapes that invite introspection. Tracks such as "Waking Up From A Thousand Year Slumber" and "Moments We Lost" showcase the duo's ability to blend haunting melodies with minimalist arrangements, creating a meditative listening experience. This release underscores Röyksopp's commitment to exploring new sonic territories while honoring their electronic roots. [ https://pitchfork.com/news/royksopp-surprise-release-new-ambient-album-listen/ ] [ https://www.brooklynvegan.com/royksopp-surprise-release-new-album-nebulous-nights-ft-alison-goldfrapp-more/ ] [ https://royksopp.bandcamp.com/album/nebulous-nights-an-ambient-excursion-into-profound-mysteries ] Genre : Ambient Country : Norway Final Verdict: 73% (Ver...

Rafael Toral's  Spectral Evolution  marks a significant evolution in his musical journey, seamlessly integrating his early ambient guitar work with the experimental electronic explorations of his 'Space Program'. The album comprises a continuous 47-minute suite divided into twelve interconnected sections, blending jazz-inspired harmonies with innovative electronic textures. Tracks like "Changes" draw from classic jazz progressions, while pieces such as "First Long Space" evoke expansive ambient soundscapes. Critics praise the album for its sophisticated synthesis of diverse musical elements, creating a cohesive and emotionally resonant experience.  Spectral Evolution  stands as a testament to Toral's ability to traverse and unify varied sonic territories, offering listeners a profound and immersive auditory journey. ( pitchfork .com   thequietus .com   obladada .com ) Genre : Ambient Country : Portugal Final Verdict: 64% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking:...

"Ghosted II," released on April 26, 2024, is the second collaboration between guitarist Oren Ambarchi, bassist Johan Berthling, and drummer Andreas Werliin. The album continues their exploration of minimalist grooves and intricate interplay, blending elements of jazz, ambient, and post-rock. Tracks like "en" and "två" showcase the trio's ability to create hypnotic rhythms and evolving soundscapes, with Ambarchi's guitar often taking on unconventional textures. The album has been praised for its cohesive atmosphere and the seamless communication between the musicians, offering a meditative listening experience that rewards attentive engagement. Oren Ambarchi   Discogs   Boomkat Genre : Ambient Country : Australia / Sweden Final Verdict: 63% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 456th / 859 Highlight : tre Made me think of: The Necks Supersilent Nils Petter Molvær #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #music...

The Eno (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) serves as a companion to Gary Hustwit's 2024 documentary on Brian Eno, offering a curated journey through Eno's expansive five-decade career. The album features 17 tracks, including collaborations with artists like David Byrne, John Cale, and Fred Again.., as well as three previously unreleased pieces. Critics have highlighted the soundtrack's ability to showcase Eno's versatility, blending ambient soundscapes with art rock elements. Notably, tracks such as "Third Uncle" and "Sky Saw" exemplify Eno's innovative approach to music, while new compositions like "All I Remember" provide fresh insights into his evolving artistry. Overall, the soundtrack is praised for its cohesive representation of Eno's influential contributions to modern music. The Times   Brian Eno Official Website   AllMusic Album Page Genre : Ambient Country : UK Final Verdict: 72% (Very Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 35th ...

First Light by Jónsi is a beautifully crafted, cinematic experience, initially created as a video game soundtrack. The album blends ambient and modern classical elements, offering a journey through serene, yet emotionally complex soundscapes. Tracks like "Clearing" and "Cherry Blossom" evoke a sense of peace and harmony, while "Floweret" introduces a more intense, tribal rhythm. The album serves as an escapist retreat, encapsulating both the turmoil of modern times and a utopian vision of tranquility​ ( Clash Magazine ) . Genre : Ambient Country : Iceland Final Verdict: 65% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 198th / 634 Highlight : Clearing Made me think of: Nils Frahm Ólafur Arnalds Max Richter #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #Ambient #Jónsi #Iceland #LP #Album #release  

Genre : Ambient Country : UK Final Verdict : 64% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking : 271th / 630 Highlight : part v - evocation Made me think of: Four Tet Nils Frahm Ólafur Arnalds #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #Ambient #JonHopkins #UK #LP #Album #release  

Genre : Ambient Country : Netherlands Final Verdict : 63% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 259th / 535 Highlight : Het Open Vuur Als Altaar Made me think of: Lustre Burzum Ulver #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #Ambient #Fluisteraars #Netherlands #LP #Album #release  

Genre : Ambient Country : Iceland Final Verdict: 62% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 315th / 516 Highlight : Told Made me think of: Floating Points Nils Frahm Jon Hopkins #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #Ambient #Kiasmos #Iceland #LP #Album #release  

Genre : Ambient Country : UK Final Verdict: 60% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 348th / 491 Highlight : Torden (feat. Tina Crimson) Made me think of: Solar Year ZIZ Astro Nautico #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #Ambient #Sleepyhead #US #LP #Album #release  

Genre : Ambient Country : UK Final Verdict: 62% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 233th / 413 Highlight : Norther Made me think of: Steve Reich Brian Eno Isildurs Bane #newalbum #newalbum2024 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #Ambient #Ex-EasterIslandHead #UK #LP #Album #release  

Genre : Ambient Country : US Final Verdict: 63% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 521th / 1057 Highlight : I swear, I Really Wanted To Make A "Rap" Album But This Is Literally The Way The Wind Blew Me This Time Made me think of: Sufjan Stevens & Lowell Brams Mydreamfever Tim Hecker #newalbum #newalbum2023 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #Ambient #André3000 #US #LP #Album #release  

Genre : Ambient Country : Canada Final Verdict: 64% (Good Album) Yearly Ranking: 466th / 1052 Highlight : Total Garbage Made me think of: Ben Frost Fennesz Jóhann Jóhannsson #newalbum #newalbum2023 #albumrelease #newmusic #albumoftheday #nowspinning #NowPlaying #musicdiscovery #Ambient #TimHecker #Canada #LP #Album #release  

Genre : Ambient Country : US Final Verdict: 51% (Pleasant Album) Yearly Ranking : 771th / 791 Highlight : City Song Made me think of: Julianna Barwick Max Richter Nils Frahm