Bestiary

Album Description

Dive into the surreal and captivating soundscape of "Bestiary," the 2001 masterpiece by ambient pioneer Robert Rich. This album, released on January 1, 2001, through Release/Relapse, is a testament to Rich's unique vision and his ability to create intricate, otherworldly sonic environments. "Bestiary" is not just an album; it's an exploration of the bizarre and the beautiful, inspired by medieval bestiaries and the strange creatures they depicted.

With a runtime of 53 minutes, "Bestiary" features eight tracks that weave together ambient, space music, dark ambient, drone, and new age elements. Rich's signature "glurp" concept is prominently featured, filling the album with mutated electronic textures generated by his MOTM analog modular synthesizer. The result is a rhythmic, energetic, and bizarre journey through a frenetic and surreal landscape inhabited by a wide variety of bizarre organisms.

The album begins with "Mantis Intentions," setting the stage for the intricate soundscapes to come. "Nesting On Cliffsides" and "Dante's Anthropomorphic Zoo" continue the exploration, each track building on the last to create a cohesive and immersive experience. "Bestiary" itself is a standout track, showcasing Rich's ability to craft intricate and evolving soundscapes.

Throughout "Bestiary," Rich's deep interest in using music as a psychoactive stimulus is evident. His background in computer music and psychology shines through in the album's intricate layers and meticulous construction. The album is a sonic venture that is equally intriguing, interesting, evolutive, and soothing, making it a standout release in Robert Rich's discography. Whether you're a longtime fan of ambient music or a newcomer to the genre, "Bestiary" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

1 januari 2001

(P) 2001 Robert Rich

About Robert Rich

Robert Rich is a pioneering figure in the realms of ambient, dark ambient, and experimental music, with a career spanning over four decades. Born and raised in California, Rich's journey began at the age of 13 when he started building his own analog modular synthesizers, a passion that would shape his unique sound. He further honed his craft at Stanford University, where he studied computer music and delved into the fascinating world of lucid dreaming research.

Rich's discography boasts over 50 albums, each a testament to his innovative approach to sound design and composition. His music, often synth-based or featuring electronically treated acoustic instruments, has influenced a wide range of artists across various genres. He is also known for his collaborations with notable figures such as Steve Roach and Lustmord.

One of Rich's most renowned contributions to the music world is his all-night Sleep Concerts, which he has been performing since 1982. These immersive experiences are designed to transport the audience into a deeper state of relaxation and introspection, showcasing Rich's ability to create psychoactive soundscapes.

Beyond his musical endeavors, Rich is also an accomplished sound designer, having worked on projects for film and television. His dedication to his craft extends to the instruments he plays and the tools he uses, often building his own acoustic and electronic instruments to achieve his distinctive sound. Rich's work is not just about creating music; it's about crafting entire sonic environments that engage and captivate the senses.