3.5

Release data:

Phobos – Cydonia Plain

Digital Download, Private Release, 2005

This release contains two 30-minute tracks, live and improvised studio recordings to be exact, which synthesist David Thompson really enjoys doing nowadays, along with two shorter, composed pieces.

On the opening title piece, slow enveloping dark textures are scattered all over the place, with a low sequence surfacing in the background after a bit. The freeform atmospheres that make up the haunting “Asterion” lead us deeper into malevolent and surreal aural territory where imminent shadows seem to roam forever. I, for one, think it’s key that these two extended tracks are listened to and absorbed by headphones.

Mysterious spheres whirl gently on “Cold Light” while a lovely melancholy and a sense of loss expire from the epilogue piece “Hope fades away”. Nice going, Dave.

Note: Dave posted nice videos for three tracks of the album on YouTube.

Website: phobos.bandcamp.comYou can see what reviews I have done of this artist on the Phobos artist page.