What We Left Behind

Robert Rich's "What We Left Behind," released on April 30, 2016, under Soundscape Productions, is a captivating journey through soundscapes that blend ambient, space music, dark ambient, drone, and new age genres. Recorded between 2014 and 2016, and meticulously mixed and mastered by Rich himself, this album spans 12 tracks and a total duration of 1 hour and 2 minutes.

The album is a sonic exploration of a recurring dream—a vision of Earth long after humanity has vanished. Rich crafts a vivid soundscape of a lush, verdant world teeming with life, inviting the audience to imagine a future where nature thrives in our absence. Each track, from the haunting "Profligate Earth" to the introspective "What We Left Behind," offers a unique perspective, blending half-rhythmic, half-astral ambient backdrops with psychedelic melodies.

"Soft Rains Fall" and "Aerial on Warm Seas" evoke images of serene landscapes, while "Corvid Collections" and "Transpiration" introduce darker, more mysterious elements. The album's title track, "What We Left Behind," serves as a poignant reflection on the legacy we might leave behind. Throughout, Rich's signature style shines, creating a cohesive and immersive listening experience.

"What We Left Behind" is a testament to Robert Rich's ability to evoke powerful imagery and emotion through sound, making it a standout addition to his discography and a must-experience for fans of ambient and experimental music.

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.