Loscil is the name used by Vancouverite Scott Morgan – and ‘Sea Island’ is named after the small island on which the city’s airport sits. It is an appropriate title, because the ambient music Morgan makes is almost completely weightless, suspended at altitude with the clouds shifting slowly and rather beautifully around it. To capture such stillness in music is an amazing achievement, because very little happens at speed, and yet the effect on the listener is totally calming and hypnotic. It is also very emotional at times, particularly in the case of ‘Iona’, where a distant bell tolls while the harmony gradually evolves around it. ‘Sea Island Murders’ also makes a powerful impact, while there is a striking tension to the harmonies of ‘Bleeding Ink’ that brings in an air of uneasiness. Occasionally Loscil introduces hints of rhythm but by and large the music is a wide open vista, its tonal quality incredibly beautiful to the ear. If you haven’t heard Morgan yet then do – for his music is great for that ‘morning after’ feeling, with all cares ebbing away as you listen.
5 out of 5
Reviewed by Ben Hogwood
{http://soundcloud.com/southernroutes-1/sets/loscil-sea-island}
