Robert Rich Humidity (Hypnos 3 Disc Set, 2000 ) This three disc set was recorded live in 1998 at concert performances by Robert Rich. The material is derived from shows in Stanford, Venice, and Pasadena, California. The music documents a crucial aspect of Rich's creative expression which has been much-discussed by fans, but seldom documented on CD. His live concerts, for which he has become renowned, are extended, slowly-evolving explorations into subdued and dream-like states of consciousness. These entirely improvised performances integrate both "played" instruments, and almost subliminally layered textural recordings, lending an exotic, mysterious and truly hypnotic depth to the sound mix. Spanning over three hours of music, HUMIDITY is comprised of unfettered cosmic drones, organic timbres and long passages of respirating ambience, utilizing some of the techniques of Rich's renowned "Sleep Concerts," as well as some sounds and interpretations of his highly-regarded collaboration with B. Lustmord, STALKER, these ethereal textures envelope, cushion and seduce the mind, but as dislocated sounds, their chameleonic effect Is tranquilizing. Fans of all phases of Robert Rich's career will recognize his strengths as an artist, from the deep space minimalism, to the extraordinary sonic depth and range, to occasional use of subtly ethnic instrumentational accents. The live tapes have been carefully remastered by Robert himself to match the extraordinary standards of his studio recordings. HUMIDITY is sure to achieve a place of significance among Rich's already-substantial body of work. Review by Ben Kettlewell information: websites: http://www.hypnos.com and http://www.amoeba. com

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