This is the sixth solo album from Rob Gould (Fula, Ashtar) and contains guest appearances from members of both of these bands and is the first time that his solo works have included vocals. His pianowork reminds me a great deal of Roger Eno, with a simplicity and starkness that contain a bleak beauty. This is incredibly atmospheric and well-layered music that has elements of artists such as Mike Oldfield, Tangerine Dream, and even Pink Floyd. At times there are minimal notes or chord changes, but it all works incredibly well and is almost ambient at times. I did find that if I played it on headphones while doing something else that I often lost track of the music as it swept along without making much of an impression, but in the still of the night with just the stars and moreporks for company (if you don’t already know they are our native owls with a very distinct call) then this is perfection on a disc.
There are some great vocals and guests musicians that add an extra element to this album, and if you enjoy your music to be thoughtful with a simple beauty then you can do no wrong with this. This is available directly from his website www.robgould.co.uk
