V/A :: For LA Vol. 1 & Vol. 2 (Nettwerk)

Ultimately, For LA Vol. 1 & For LA Vol. 2 are more than just impressive collections of ambient works. They are a heartfelt response to tragedy, amplifying the voices of artists who use sound to bring comfort and aid. This release is not just worth a listen—it’s worth supporting, as every note carries the weight of healing and hope for a city in need.

More than just an expansive meditation in sound

The devastation caused by the early January fires in Los Angeles left an undeniable mark on the city and its people. In response, For LA Vol. 1 & For LA Vol. 2, a (combined) 65-track ambient compilation released by Nettwerk Records, stands as both a sonic balm and a meaningful act of solidarity. Curated by Hollie Kenniff and mastered by her husband, Keith Kenniff (aka Goldmund and Helios), this sprawling collection gathers an impressive roster of musicians from the ambient, electronic, and modern classical realms. More than just an expansive meditation in sound, all proceeds from this release directly aid fire relief efforts through We Are Moving The Needle and Give Directly ensuring support reaches those most affected.

Across two volumes, the compilation flows with a vast emotional range— from meditative calm to melancholic reflection—offering a sonic landscape that mirrors the resilience and sorrow felt in the wake of such destruction. While the entire collection is worth deep immersion, a few standout tracks particularly resonate.

A deep undercurrent of nostalgia ::

In Vol. 1, Keith Kenniff’s own contribution under his Goldmund alias, “The Great River,” is an early highlight. A delicate and introspective piano piece, its warm resonance creates a sense of solace, gently guiding the listener into the compilation’s expansive world. Elsewhere, Warmth’s “Crossways” shimmers with subtly gritty synth textures and swelling pads, evoking the still air after a storm. Another standout, “Interlude” by Anita Tatlow X Antarctic Wastelands, pairs distant, hazy melodies with a deep undercurrent of nostalgia, serving as a poignant reflection on loss and an inspiring sense of renewal.

“A heartfelt response to tragedy, amplifying the voices of artists who use sound to bring comfort and aid.” ~Don Haugen

Moving into Vol. 2, the sonic breadth deepens. One of the most hauntingly beautiful tracks, Allana Crouch’s “Reflections,” showcases her signature solo piano work, layered into a choral-like expanse that feels both intimate and vast. Lawrence English‘s “Fireflies and Falling Light” is another evocative piece, taking the listener on an auditory field trip with sparse field recordings of croaking frogs and buzzing insects that embody a sense of peace and life. This volume begins and ends with live recordings from the late maestro Ryuichi Sakamoto, both recorded in Los Angeles—”Parolibre – Live At The Ace Hotel DTLA 20191018″ and “20151005_WAV – Los Angeles 20151005.” The former carries a weighty emotional resonance with its delicate piano work, while the latter’s crackling and buzzing noise textures embody both sorrow and resilience—a rebirth.

For LA Vol. 1 & For LA Vol. 2 brings together a wide spectrum of ambient composers, each contributing previously unreleased material to support the cause. The album not only serves as a showcase of talent but also as a beacon of hope for those affected by the fires. As listeners navigate the delicate piano compositions, ethereal soundscapes, and emotive drones, they are reminded of the unifying power of music in times of crisis.

Ultimately, these compilations are more than just an impressive collection of ambient works. They are a heartfelt response to tragedy, amplifying the voices of artists who use sound to bring comfort and aid. These releases are not just worth a listen—it’s worth supporting, as every note carries the weight of healing and hope for a city in need.

For LA Vol. 1 and For LA Vol. 2 are available on Nettwerk. [Preview V1 | Preview V2]