Release data:

Darshan – The End of Days
CD-r/Digital Download, Darshan Music, 1999

I seem to be one of the lucky ones who owns a physical copy of this album by Oakland-based composer Michael Allison, aka Darshan. In 1999, this private release recording became part of the distribution roster of James Johnson’s own Zero Music label.

“The End of Days” delivers a beautiful collection of introspective music and sonic simplicity that fits rather in the same vein as the works of the already mentioned Mr Johnson but also carries elements of Vidna Obmana and Brian Eno: 10 soft, non-rhythmic ambient compositions (some 70 minutes altogether) of melodic, slowly shifting and serene soundscapes with some occasional vocal-like and flute sounds. The soft piano sounds combined with the captivating synth orchestration in the piece “Satie’s Garden” lend the outcome something enchanting.

This is lightly lyrical, almost anti-stress music to dream away and find solace. In terms of recording or production, there is little to criticise. Well done, Mr Allison.

Website: darshanambient.bandcamp.com

You can see what reviews I have done of this artist on the Darshan artist page.