Tokyo's Mule Musiq has managed to assemble one of the most original compilations of the year. Unlike other factions harbouring similar styles of work (like Kompakt's Pop Ambient, or New York's Air Texture), the imprint has exhibited no rush in presenting the third volume of Enjoy The Silence, which focuses on contemporary translations of ambient and chill-out music. The hiatus has lead to a renewed sense of purpose for the project lead by label boss Toshiya Kawasaki.
Falling three years after its predecessor, these ten compositions from established composers like Terre Thaemlitz, Lawrence, Koss, Roman Flugel, Hauschka, Petre Inspirescu and John Roberts challenge boundaries evident in most of today's electronic landscape, while remaining tastefully accessible. Each of the tracks share a unique synergy, whether moving through piano-centric themes, spacious minimalism or synthetically-charged environments. Their emotive quality is notably consistent when considering the diversity of each artist involved and their respective background.
It all just seems to work in a way that doesn't hit home until you've concluded your first listen. Rarely are compilations of this nature executed with such continuity, but thanks to friends new and old, Mule Musiq have made their return to the format well worth the wait.
(Mule Musiq)Falling three years after its predecessor, these ten compositions from established composers like Terre Thaemlitz, Lawrence, Koss, Roman Flugel, Hauschka, Petre Inspirescu and John Roberts challenge boundaries evident in most of today's electronic landscape, while remaining tastefully accessible. Each of the tracks share a unique synergy, whether moving through piano-centric themes, spacious minimalism or synthetically-charged environments. Their emotive quality is notably consistent when considering the diversity of each artist involved and their respective background.
It all just seems to work in a way that doesn't hit home until you've concluded your first listen. Rarely are compilations of this nature executed with such continuity, but thanks to friends new and old, Mule Musiq have made their return to the format well worth the wait.