Slug (DE)

Kali Malone and Sarah Davachi have long since shown us: the organ is the ultimate drone instrument. Sounds for eternity. Infinite vibrations. Boundless intensities. But what comes next? Post-drone? Post-organ? Zimoun has an answer: the Wind Dynamic Organ! Or at least its prototype No. III. The Swiss sound artist was given the opportunity to try it out in Bern Minster, with the official permission of its inventor, Daniel Glaus. What makes the Wind Dynamic Organ so special are the freedoms it gives to the musicians. The air within the organ’s casing can be controlled more precisely and dynamically. The result is airier tones, finer sonic textures, and more refined material for the drones. And because Zimoun, as an ambient and sound artist, prefers things precise and subtle, he takes this material and further refines it: hence the title “Deviations.” He is supported in this endeavor by the American sound artist and founder of the experimental label 12k, Taylor Deupree. Deupree not only has a particular interest in minimalist music but has also collaborated with luminaries such as Ryuichi Sakamoto. The result is therefore not entirely surprising, but nonetheless enchanting: pure ambient music, dreamy, expansive soundscapes, repeatedly punctuated by delicate crackling sounds, like the footsteps of extraterrestrial beings. It’s wonderful that they were allowed to wander into the hallowed halls of Bern Minster. The album rightly bears the tag “psychedelic.” Recommended for fans of the subtle William Basinski as well as the ethereal noise artists Yellow Swans.