Richard MARCER is an electronic artist whose recordings have included ‘Indira’, ‘Lucid Dreaming’ and ‘Bright Shadow’; the piece ‘Unusual Discovery’, which was released by iM Electronica, combines ambient electronics with the textures of post-rock in an instrumental work, its attraction lying in the way these elements interact, sustained tones creating the atmosphere and a controlled rhythmic pulse giving the composition a constant feeling of movement.
It’s quite satisfying to give a composition so much room. With ‘Unusual Discovery’ the various layers develop slowly, and it is the variation in density that is at the heart of the track’s progression. The rhythm facilitates this process by keeping the music in motion while the synthesizers fill out a wider sonic space. For those who are attracted to the more patient aspect of electronic music, this balance provides the piece with a clear starting point.
Atmosphere, Tension, Electronics
-PurpleMistress
Warmth and a sense of discomfort are closely linked in this piece. The acoustic nostalgia present in the track combines with electronics which can have a wide sound and at the same time be slightly disturbing. This blend creates a worthwhile emotional tension. A peaceful section takes on a further dimension because of the friction introduced by the surrounding textures, and the reflective nature of the composition becomes more interesting as a result of these changes. It is in this area that the piece’s ambient and post-rock influences come together most effectively.
In the instrumental version it is the arrangement that takes responsibility for telling the story, with sounds coming in, then fading away and reappearing with changed intensity so that the transitions themselves convey the drama. I believe this method is especially appropriate for the title since discovery involves paying attention, pursuing a particular detail and noticing where it takes you; the music’s slow development gives that concept a practical form through variations in texture, pace and the way the different layers relate to one another.
The piece ‘Unusual Discovery’ effectively argues for a careful approach to construction, and its most noteworthy aspect is the way it combines a steady rhythm with a shifting atmosphere. By allowing these two elements to interact, MARCER creates a thoughtful composition in which the appeal is in the details. Take a few minutes and give the piece your full attention.
