An unexpected acoustic turn from an electronic-ambient label, this release reveals a deeply immersive world of microtonal piano, spiritual minimalism, and improvised introspection.
An acoustic departure, slowly unfolding
I was not expecting such an entirely acoustic (modern classical) release from a label that has typically offered music fitting within the electronic-ambient genre and its derivatives. However, I must recognize that an aesthetic and stylistic value prevails throughout the entire catalog: slowly moving, soothing microtonalism with an experimental edge. This ranges from the eco-soundscaping micro-noises of Manja Ristic, to the obsessive, looped, ghostly electronic laments of the project Grandbruit, and the enveloping, sentient soundscapes of Hymns57.
Stefan Christoff is a North American sound artist whose musical personality borders processed field recordings, ambient music, and microtonal improvised piano music. In this album, aleatoric sound manipulations and multi-effects give way to purely organic, cascading piano notes, presented in a spiritually epiphanic mood.
Tonality in Motion is the result of long-form improvisations performed in a multimedia museum context. The music oscillates between impressionistic, melodious atmospheres and mystical sonic passages. This sensory and immersive piano experience can be considered a stylistic meeting point between foundational minimalist works (such as November by Dennis Johnson, Padova Concert by Terry Riley, and materials by Peter Michael Hamel or Hans Otte), the proggy, mantra-like spiraling piano motifs of Florian Fricke (Popol Vuh), and the neoclassical ambient renewal represented by artists such as James Heather and Koki Nakano.
Highly recommended for listeners interested in contemporary piano pieces with a neo-tonal inclination and a strong sense of improvisation, the album is ultimately surrounded by a delicate spiritual aura.
Tonality in Motion is available on Élan Vital. [Bandcamp]
