Uhlmann, Gregory: Extra Stars (Vinyl LP)

"Extra Stars is Gregory Uhlmann's solo debut on International Anthem. It's a deep and gorgeous expansion of the LA-based multi-instrumentalist producer / composer's rhythmic ambient side, as nascently explored in his much-lauded duo with Meg Duffy, his trio work with Josh Johnson and Sam Wilkes, and in the gentler moments of SML (the improvising trance-jazz unit of which he is a member). A radiant sidereal serenade, the album's fourteen miniature infinities swirl serendipitous synthesis and measured, melody-rich song into a panoramic menagerie of sound. For a record that seldom incorporates percussion instrumentals, the music is distinctly rhythm-forward, while Uhlmann also leans heavily into swaths of pastoral beauty. Extra care was clearly poured into the kind of harmonic depth that's often missing from vibe-only ""ambient"" music, making for a delightfully refreshing take on the electronic, processing-heavy quiet sound." Pocket Snail, View Above, Lucia (Feat. Alabaster Deplume), Like Tea, Days, Worms Eye, Burnt Toast, Dottie, Bristlecone, Voice Exchange, View Below, Back Scratch, Imprint, Sugar Water