(July 2010) Topography is a waterlogged soundscape of experimentation, completed with modular analog synth work as presented by musician Don Mennerich (aka The Ancient Lowly). This release is limited to just 150 numbered copies, each disk being accompanied by a mini-representation of the synthesizer used on the recordings. Each black-backed-CDR is sheathed in hand screen-printed jackets.
The introduction of “Fissure” gives way to a traditional sounding organ. Progressing to produce a wonderful sensation of bubbles, it eventually stabilises into a steady stream of activity. The monotonous buzz throughout
keeps it on an even level, positioned not too far from sprays of resonance arriving in precise quick sharp shots. “Marcel’s Dreams” is a simple boxy like metronome style beat accompanied by layers of pin sharp synths, strengthening with each bar to create the sensation of an amplified, slightly distorted accordion with brasslike tones. “Pellet” shows off its waterlogged maracas at the start, blending momentarily with a nice church organ styled sound. There’s a diamond sharp, crystal clear acoustic guitar delivering melodic bursts of cryptic energy, maintaining a very surreal personality. This simple repetitive form ends abruptly. “Plicate” thrusts bubbles of air into the depths of murky waters, creating a reaction that showcases a collection of rare metals, toyshop instrumentation and abandoned springs that somehow lost control, bouncing around erratically. “Shoemaker-Levy 9” arrives with its classic styled tones and spaceship drama, making for a startling entrance and providing a unique full body of texture on which the rest in built. Steering wisely around an array of buzzes and ever expanding like a piece of elastic, the sounds become very random and hypnotic as they find their way effortlessly through the atmosphere.
Topography is a work of many chemical formulas, of which H2O is most prominent, it’s light, airy and brief.
Topography is out now on Crabouiller.
