Fortresses :: Near (Dragon’s Eye)

Such a powerful ambient excursion dips and dives through the unknown and offers a captivating treasure-trove we should all experience.

“Lean into the lull”

Sam Ashton (aka Fortresses) delivers “Near,” an almost 10-minute composition that simply stands alone, drones and all, its spacious and surreal audio passage drifting just outside the margins, and within “the swaying tops of ancient pine trees far in the woods.” The Londoner, according to the release page, “found himself turning into the Pacific Northwest, inspired by the climate and the natural landscape.” We wholeheartedly agree with the artists’ inspiration. As “Near” transitions from waving tones into ethereal soundscapes and sonic escapes, its aural hues are simply sublime, subtle, and all-consuming. A calm and natural mood wraps the senses as this piece is able to transport us via captured field recordings. “”Near” becomes its very own life-source, humming into being in a new world.” Such a powerful ambient excursion dips and dives through the unknown and offers a captivating treasure-trove we should all experience.

Near is available on Dragon’s Eye. [Bandcamp]