The complete pieces are reconstructed settings from a human perspective. In them, you can hear subtle changes, and arguably some development. The album is mainly atmospheric, communicating a wide and subtle range of gloomy impressions and moods.
Nature and artifice clash viscerally through texture and tone
Ard Bit’s Field Recordings – 05 Bohemia is an excellent collection of sound collages, created with phonographic elements. The complete pieces are reconstructed settings from a human perspective. In them, you can hear subtle changes, and arguably some development. The album is mainly atmospheric, communicating a wide and subtle range of gloomy impressions and moods.
“Gemaal” sounds like a sprinkler or other water system, at first. As the track develops, the sprinkler sound seems more percussive: like a tambourine. Various tonal drones come in, which are treated sounds, maybe of vehicles or other mechanical sources. Within several minutes, “Gemaal” becomes dense with perhaps a rain storm. I am reminded of a location, somewhere between an industrial park and a newer subdivision, and I am listening to the infrastructure—and especially to pipes.
“The recordings resonate with me in a meditative embrace; sound comes alive, carrying me along. Images unfold effortlessly, akin to scents evoking memories of places, pathways, and foot-steps. They recall moments I once walked upon a place I had not yet known.” ~Anne van den Hooven
“Kostel” opens with a combination of industrial type recordings, mixed with tonal drones that oscillate. As the drones maintain a steady mood, more industrial motifs are featured. String tones bring in an orchestral element, and the piece resembles a soundtrack—maybe a much calmer Koyaanisqatsi. In fact, as a whole, a phrase from Glass’ soundtrack, played at reduced tempo, might well sound like “Kostel.” The act of listening is to notice gradually-revealed details, some cheering, some gloomy, emitted by a static location. More human themes emerge as the track continues, but it is hard to say that they develop. Circulating is a better word, with dark and light modes coming and going tidally.
“Lahev” opens with amplified textures. Water, stones, plastic—I am reminded of a stream running through a construction zone. Nature and artifice clash viscerally through texture and tone. A moderate calm is gradually invaded with man-made elements and other sounds from nature. There is an ominous sounding dark drone beneath, as though the setting is very gradually changing, and not for the healthier. A loud, protruding fly sound appears at the end of the track, as though the insect was very near the microphone.
From the likes of Bohemia, Ard Bit’s Field Recordings series is worth diving into. I feel relaxed having listened, but neither bored nor completely hopeless. The release is very nicely orchestrated.
Field Recordings – 05 Bohemia is available on Bandcamp.
