Robert Rich – Illumination

2 reviews for Robert Rich – Illumination

1. 

   Phil Derby / Electroambient Space – 2022-11-22

   Robert Rich seems to do well drawing on visual artists for his inspiration. Three of his recent recordings, Echo of Small Things, Atlas Dei, and now Illumination were derived from, in turn, still photography, computer graphics, and a multimedia installation. What amazes me is how Robert has been turning out some of his strongest work after what could easily have been a career-ending hand injury.

   Any limitations he experiences seem merely to focus laser-like sharpness on his ability to create minimal soundscapes in a variety of creative ways. Listening to Illumination, as well as other recent recordings by Rich, one marvels at his ability to make music out of the barest elements. Deep, cavernous echoes and resonant drones are the order of the day. Id be hard pressed to identify the instrumentation used, and Rich isnt saying in the liner notes. Barely audible whispers can also be heard in the background at times, adding to the haunting quality. Much of it has a metallic or ringing character as well, sometimes sounding similar to Steve Roachs The Magnificent Void.

   Though Richs tones can sometimes have melody, Illumination is all about textures and tone. Near-nothingness never sounded so good.

   2007. Phil Derby / Electroambient Space

2. 

   Chuck van Zyl / STAR’S END – 2022-11-22

   In a mood of philosophical calm, Robert Rich realizes music imbued with a sense of wonder at creation. The seven works on Illumination (71’06) are based on the concept that music should be simplified and enlarged