Smog – Wild Love
Style: Slacker Rock, Experimental Songwriter, Loner Folk, Avant-Folk
Vibe: Alienation, Brooding, Depressive, Eclectic, Loner, Moody, Nocturnal, Pessimistic, Sad, Sombre, Existential, Poetic, Introspective, Intimate
Style: Slacker Rock, Experimental Songwriter, Loner Folk, Avant-Folk
Vibe: Alienation, Brooding, Depressive, Eclectic, Loner, Moody, Nocturnal, Pessimistic, Sad, Sombre, Existential, Poetic, Introspective, Intimate
Style: Singer-Songwriter, Country Rock, Cosmic American Music
Vibes: Existential, Poetic, Contemplative, Cosmic, Melancholy, Passionate, Raw, Twangy, Bittersweet, Nature, Reflective
Gene Clark – No Other Sessions Read More »
featuring Rob Mazurek, Jeff Parker, Nicole Mitchell, Damon Locks, Gerard Cleaver, Craig Taborn, Angelica Sanchez & Mauricio Takara
Style: Cyber-Jazz, Cosmic Big-Band, Jazz Fission
Vibes: Futuristic, Communal, Triumphant, Cosmic, Surreal, Exploratory, Anthemic, Colorful
Musical Qualities: Dense, Collective Improvisation, Polyphonic, Percussive, Progressive, Rhythmic, Spoken Word, Studio-as-an-Instrument, Suite
Exploding Star Orchestra – Live at the Adler Planetarium Read More »
Style: Avant-Prog Chamber Music, Rock in Opposition
Vibes: Menacing, Ominous, Bleak, Epic, Intense, Gloomy, Angular, Cold, Cinematic, Complex, Determined, Dystopian, Rainy, Sombre
Art Zoyd – Phase IV Read More »
Style: Progressive Folk, Chamber Rock
Vibes: Animist, Passionate, Apocalyptic, Journeying, Nature, Urgent, Adventure, Earthy, Epic, Intimate, Mysterious, Philosophical, Sombre, Political
Elfin Saddle – Devastates Read More »
Style: Post-Rock, Cosmic Americana, New Age, Post-Minimalism
Vibes: Ethereal, Uplifting, Reflective, Existential, Cosmic, Heartfelt, Spiritual, Triumphant, Futuristic, Bright
Andrew Weathers Ensemble – Build a mountain Where Our Bodies Fall Read More »
Style: Art Pop, Math Pop, Art Rock, Baroque Pop-influenced
Vibes: Romantic, Warm, Intertwined, Uplifting, Intricate, Spring, Love, Anthemic, Angular, Eclectic, Poetic
Dirty Projectors – Swing Lo Magellan Read More »
4LP box set includes the albums Lalibela, King of Kings, Birth / Speed / Merging, and Live at KQED, 1975
Style: Afro-Jazz, Avant-Garde Jazz, Spiritual Jazz
Vibes: Ritualistic, Communal, Pan-African, Searching, Earthy, Forest, Cathartic, Driving, Earthy, Energetic, Groovy, Hypnotic, Intertwined, Tribal, Spiritual
The Pyramids – Aomawa: The 1970s Recordings Read More »
with Janel Leppin, Eyvind Kang, Anthony Pirog, Jessika Kenney, etc
Style: Avant-Chamber Music, Persian Classical Music, Modern Classical
Vibes: Devotional, Mysterious, Ritualistic, Suspenseful, Flowing, Meditative
Susan Alcorn – The Heart Sutra Read More »
Styles: Chamber Music, Abenaki Folk
Moods: Sombre, Elegant, Ritualistic, Reflective, Sentimental, Poetic, Flowing
Themes: , Colonial History, Waban-Aki Folklore, Storytelling, Political
Alanis Obomsawin – Bush Lady Read More »
All tracks recorded live in sacred places (Seiryu Temple, Waseda Salvation Church)
Style: Ritual Folk, Acid Folk
Vibes: Mystical, Ancient, Ritualistic, Spiritual, Forest, Psychedelic, Mysterious, Medieval, Haunting, Dreamy, Eclectic
Instrumentation: Chants, Flutes, 12-String Guitar, Cello, Drums, Organ, Hurdy Gurdy, Harp, Piano, Horn
Ghost – Temple Stone Read More »
Each artist fills an entire LP side with their own improvised interpretation of Ornette Coleman’s “Lonely Woman” . Shalabi channels the tune through a solo oud meditation, shaped by his characteristically searching and sensitive improvisations. On the other side, Sunn Trio performs an undulating percussive ritual, overdubbed with a wide pallet of tangled acoustic instruments, dub psychedelia, and hypnotizing drones.
Sunn Trio / Sam Shalabi – Trippin’ on Coleman Read More »
with Janel Leppin, Eyvind Kang, Anthony Pirog, Jessika Kenney, etc
Style: Avant-Chamber Music, Persian Classical Music, Modern Classical
Vibes: Devotional, Mysterious, Ritualistic, Suspenseful, Flowing, Meditative
Susan Alcorn – The Heart Sutra Read More »
On the Surface
Style: Chamber Folk, Progressive Songwriter, Art Rock
Vibes: Brooding, Autumnal, Reflective, Weary, Bittersweet, Longing, Sombre, Melancholy, Mysterious
Themes: Existential, Impermanence, Time, Love, Death, Philosophical
Beth Gibbons – Lives Outgrown Read More »
Style: Free Folk, American Primitivism
Vibes: Sunny, Uplifting, Pastoral, Morning, Rootsy, Spiritual, Warm, Communal
Instrumentation: Banjo, Cello, Fiddle, Harmonium, Acoustic & Electric Guitars, Cigar Box, Sruti Box
Friends of the Road – Sunseekin’ Blues Read More »
Style: Loner Folk, Singer/Songwriter, Acid Folk
Vibes: Autumnal, Alienation, Reflective, Warm, Melancholy, Stoned, Rural, Lonely, Mellow, Psychedelic, Loner
Instrumentation: Vocals, Acoustic & Electric Guitars, Cello, Flute, Mandolin, Organ, Piano, Electric Bass
Gary Higgins – Red Hash Read More »
Style: Creative Music, Avant Chamber Music
Vibes: Cryptic, Suspenseful, Mystical, Cerebral, Responsive, Numerological, Angular, Contemplative, Philosophical, Intertwined, Abstract, Intricate, Knotty
Anthony Braxton with Robert Schumann String Quartet Read More »
Style: Collage-Pop, Glitch-Folk, Plunderphonics
Vibe: Surreal, Psychedelic, Peaceful, Cerebral, Meditative, Philosophical, Spiritual, Uplifting, Warm, Playful, Hallucinogenic
Musical Attributes: Sampling, Electro-Acoustic, Melodic, Sound Collage, Vocal Manipulation
The Books – Lost and Safe Read More »
Style: Free Improvisation
Vibes: Suspenseful, Exploratory, Murky, Mysterious, Impressionistic
Instrumentation: Cello, Violin, Trumpet, Piano Harp
Musical Qualities: Droney, Atonal, Dynamic, Electro-Acoustic, Collective Improvisation, Live Recording
Lori Goldston / AF Jones / Greg Kelley / Austin Larkin – Miasms Read More »
Whilst in Istanbul for an artist residency, the adventurous Montreal chamber rock group recorded Dalmak with an ensemble of Turkish musicians, augmenting their core sound of cello, marimba, and drums with the saz, darbuka, bendir and several other instruments used in Turkish and Arabic folk music. Epic, modal themes emerge from watery beds of minimalistic polyrhythms and suspenseful string arrangments. While often sombre, mournful or foreboding, the musi seems driven by a collective sense of spiritual determination and hope.
Style: Avant-Garde Jazz, Chamber Jazz
Vibes: Playful, Intertwined, Angular, Colorful, Abstract, Complex, Exploratory, Knotted, Triumphant
Style: Cretan Folk Music, Avant-Folk
Vibes: Passionate, Mythic, Sombre, Rootsy, Spiritual, Warm, Poetic
Instrumentation: Vocals, Lute, Drums, Lyra, Mandolin, Oud, Cello
Xylouris White – The Sisypheans Read More »
Style: Avant-Garde Chamber Jazz
Vibes: Epic, Intense, Cathartic, Passionate, Driving, Energetic, Intertwined, Spiritual, Transcendent, Ominous, Triumphant, Powerful, Fiery, Cerebral
fLuXkit Vancouver (it’s suite but sacred) Read More »
Style: Psychedelic Chamber Music, Free Folk, Neo-Medieval Folk, Dhrupad
Vibes: Mystical, Medieval, Nature, Alchemical, Flowing, Meditative, Ritualistic, Mysterious, Earthy, Occult
Instrumentation: Cello, Oboe, Percussion, Violin/Viola
with Jesse Sharps, Adele Sebastian, Horace Tapscott, etc
Style: Experimental Big Band, Spiritual Jazz, Avant-Garde Jazz
Vibes: Communal, Uplifting, Ecstatic, Triumphant, Driving, Spiritual, Energetic, Cathartic, Complex, Groovy, Passionate, Warm
Pan-Afrikan Peoples Arkestra – Flight 17 Read More »
Lineup: Alan Silva, Roscoe Mitchell, Robin Kenyatta, Don Moye, Steve Lacy, Jerome Cooper, Dave Burrell, Bernard Vitet, Alan Shorter, Joseph Jarman, Ronnie Beer, Michel Portal, Dieter Gewissler, Jouk Minor, Kent Carter, Irene Aebi, Oliver Johnson, Joachim Kuhn
Style: Cosmic Big-Band, Creative Music, Free Jazz
Vibes: Apocalyptic, Cosmic, Cathartic, Communal, Intense, Ritualistic, Entropic, Meditative, Spiritual, Mysterious, Energetic
Musical Qualities: Conducted Improvisation, Dense, Acoustic, Instrumental, Atonal, Orchestral, Active Listening, Complex, Noisy, Heavy, Progressive
Alan Silva and the Celestrial Communication Orchestra – Seasons Read More »
featuring members of Espers, The Eyesores & Jesse Sparhawk
Style: Acid Folk, Progressive Chamber-Folk
Vibes: Mystical, Forest, Flowing, Sombre, Medieval, Witchy, Eerie, Fantasy, Melancholy, Autumnal, Eerie, Mysterious
Fern Knight – Music for Witches and Alchemists Read More »
Style: Art Pop, Experimental Songwriter
Vibes: Warm, Meditative, Spiritual, Compassionate, Tender, Introspective, Romantic, Hypnotic, Contemplative, Light, Lonely, Longing, Poetic, Buddhist
Musical Qualities: Soft, Home Recording, Melodic, Sparse, Percussive, Rhythmic
Arthur Russell – Another Thought Read More »
featuring Deantoni Parks, Austin Peralta, Thundercat, Kamasi Washington, DOMi & JD Beck, Jeff Parker, Carlos Niño, Bennie Maupin, Jamael Dean, Jamire Williams, Josh Johnson, Brandon Coleman, Devin Daniels, Lara Somogyi, Liza Wallace, Sara Andon, Alison Bjorkedal, Ambrose Akinmusire, Dexter Story & more
Style: Cosmic Chamber-Jazz, Progressive Exotica, Jazz Fusion, Third Stream
Vibes: Ethereal, Mystical, Cosmic, Immersive, Communal, Epic, Colorful, Flowing, Contemplative, Fantasy, Reflective, Spiritual, Eclectic
Miguel Atwood-Ferguson – Les Jardins Mystiques Vol. 1 Read More »
Marcio Mattos, Sachiko M, Tetuzi Akiyama
Style: EAI, Experimental Songwriter, Reductionism
Vibes: Sombre, Forest, Depressive, Nocturnal, Introspective, Apathetic, Poetic, Open, Death, Visceral, Mysterious, Anguish, Bleak, Alienation
David Sylvian – Manafon Read More »
Style: American Primitivism, Post-Minimalism, Ambient Americana
Vibes: Contemplative, Nature, Pastoral, Sombre, Focused, Hypnotic, Rootsy, Aquatic, Meditative
Elijah McLaughlin Ensemble – III Read More »
Style: Free-Improvisation, Chamber-Jazz, Spiritual Jazz
Vibes: Contemplative, Searching, Autumnal, Intimate, Elegant, Free, Spiritual, Meditative, Bittersweet, Mysterious, Hypnotic, Passionate, Pastoral
Instrumentation: Cello
Musical Qualities: Improvisation, Solo, Instrumental, Sparse
Abdul Wadud – By Myself Read More »
Style: Wyrd Folk, Progressive Folk Rock
Vibes: Occult, Forest, Medieval, Epic, Nocturnal, Mystical, Brooding, Witchy
Musical Qualities: Riffs, Progressive, Fuzzy, Lyrical
Instrumentation: Vocals, Acoustic & Electric Guitars, Cello, Harp, Violin, Drums, Electric Bass
Fern Knight – Castings Read More »
Style: Folk (Mystical, Loner, Free, Acid), Progressive Singer/Songwriter
Vibes: Meditative, Nature, Ethereal, Pastoral, Autumnal, Surreal, Ritualistic, Medieval, Loner, Nocturnal, Hypnotic
Instrumentation: Hammered Dulcimer, Flute, Harp, Psaltery, Bow Chime, Log Drum, Piano, Mandola, Tamboura, Bells, Shakers, Steel Cello
Dorothy Carter – Waillee, Waillee Read More »
Style: Singer/Songwriter, Folk Pop, Americana
Vibe: Warm, Tender, Romantic, Reflective, Playful, Love, Compassionate, Rustic, Bittersweet, Intimate, Mellow
Musical Qualities: Catchy, Lyrical, Lush, Home Recording, Acoustic, Melodic
Instrumentation: Vocals, Cello, Acoustic Guitar, Piano, Drums, Keyboards, Organ, Vibraphone, Tabla, Violin, Bongos, Horns, Flute, Bass
Arthur Russell – Iowa Dream Read More »
Style: Spiritual Jazz, Progressive Jazz
Vibe: Polyvocal, Communal, Uplifting, Warm, Triumphant, Flowing, Driving, Groovy, Raw, Hypnotic, Reflective, Colorful, Spiritual, Rebellious, Compassionate
Musical Qualities: Collective Improvisation, Thematic, Polyphonic, Dub, Suite, Loose, Rhythmic, Percussive, Studio-as-an-Instrument, Analogue Recording
Instrumentation: Tenor Sax, Electric Guitar, Synthesizers, Electric Bass, Multiple Drummers, Tabla, Upright Bass, Cello, Group Vocals, Piano, Percussion
Alabaster DePlume – Come With Fierce Grace Read More »
Style: Ambient Pop, Electro-Acoustic, Post-Minimalism, Avant-Folk
Vibe: Introspective, Deconstructed, Intimate, Surreal, Exploratory, Mysterious, Aquatic, Ethereal, Hypnotic, Mystical, Warm
Instrumentation: Vocals, Cello, Keyboards, Guitar, Harmonica, Echoes
Arthur Russell – Pictures of Bunny Rabbit Read More »
Style: Liberation Music, Jazz Poetry, Spiritual Jazz
Vibes: Uplifting, Polyvocal, Intertwined, Triumphant, Meditative, Driving, Spiritual, Rebellious, Political, Warm, Conscious, Poetic, Liberation
Musical Qualities: Collective Improvisation, Polyrhythmic, Acoustic, Polyphonic, Progressive, Thematic, Ostinato
Irreversible Entanglements – Protect Your light Read More »
Style: Free Folk, Lo-Fi Psych, Mystical Folk
Vibe: Mysterious, Mystical, Communal, Murkey, Nocturnal, Ritualistic, Spacey, Eclectic, Hallucinogenic, Haunting
Musical Qualities: Vignettes, Lo-Fi, Acoustic, Droney, Collage, Studio-as-an-Instrument, Electro-Acoustic
The Tower Recordings – Folk Scene Read More »
featuring Chad Taylor, Lester St. Louis, Jason Ajemian, Rob Fry, Daniel Villarreal, Akenya Seymour
Style: Liberation Music, Progressive Folk-Jazz, Avant-Garde Jazz
Vibe: Triumphant, Rebellious, Communal, Colorful, Warm, Uplifting, Energetic, Passionate
jaimie branch – Fly or Die Fly or Die Fly or Die ((world war)) Read More »
Style: Weird Americana, Folk-Rock, Singer/Songwriter
Vibes: Cryptic, Autumnal, Warm, Rural, Sardonic, Observational, Apathetic, Mellow, Peaceful, Playful. Twangy
Musical Qualities: Lush, Loops, Electro-Acoustic, Percussive, Melodic, Lyrical, Studio-as-an-Instrument
Califone – Villagers Read More »
Fursaxa & Helena Espvall
Style: Free Folk, Drone
Vibe: Ritualistic, Medieval, Nocturnal, Forest, Exploratory, Mysterious, Mystical, Religious, Occult, Cosmic, Witchy
Musical Qualities: Droney, Improvisation, Acoustic, Loops, Slow, Choral
Anahita – Tourmaline Read More »
Fursaxa & Helena Espvall
Style: Free-Folk, Drone
Vibe: Ritualistic, Eerie, Nocturnal, Haunting, Murky, Mysterious, Witchy, Forest, Psychedelic, Primordial, Occult
Instrumentation: Organ, Cello, Experimental Vocals, Harmonium
Anahita – Arcana en Cantos Read More »
Style: Free Improvisation
Vibe: Abstract, Responsive, Cerebral, Suspenseful, Kinetic, Free
Musical Qualities: Atonal, Improvisation, Sparse, Acoustic, Extended Technique, Instrumental
David Holland & Derek Bailey – Improvisations for Cello and Guitar Read More »
“But stand brave, life-liver, bleeding out your days in the river of time.
Stand brave: time moves both ways, in the nullifying, defeating, negating, repeating joy of life.
The moment of your greatest joy sustains: not axe nor hammer, tumor, tremor, can take it away, and it remains.
And it pains me to say, I was wrong. Love is not a symptom of time. Time is just a symptom of love”
Joanna Newsom – Divers Read More »
Produced by George Harrison
Style: Vedic Chants, Hindustani Classical Music
Vibe: Devotional, Meditative, Nocturnal, Spiritual, Peaceful, Ritualistic, Reflective, Soothing, Ecstatic, Hypnotic, Intricate, Psychedelic
Instrumentation: Group Vocals, Sitar, Autoharp, Strings (Viola, Violin, Cello), Flute, Tabla, Veena, Mridangam, Morsing, Tamboura, Harp, Santoor, Acoustic Guitar, Glockenspiel, Vibraphone
Ravi Shankar – Chants of India Read More »
Style: Progressive Bluegrass, Folk
Moods: Autumnal, Rural, Rootsy, Twangy, Warm, Melancholy
Instrumentation: Acoustic Guitar, Cello, Fiddle, Dobro, Mandolin
Norman Blake – The Fields of November Read More »
Style: Trance-Rock, Psych, Jam Band
Vibes: Pastoral, Cinematic, Communal, Rural, Driving, Earthy, Hypnotic, Open, Peaceful, Psychedelic, Contemplative
Musical Qualities: Slow, Dynamic, Instrumental, Repetitive, Jams, Riffs, Fuzzy, Atmospheric
Style: Singer/Songwriter, Art Pop, Chamber-Jazz
Vibes: Autumnal, Sombre, Introspective, Vaudeville, Lush, Sentimental, Theatric, Surreal, Storytelling, Haunting
Rustin Man – Drift Code Read More »
Style: Free Folk, Electroacoustic Drone, Ritual Psych
Moods: Witchy, Meditative, Visceral, Nocturnal, Ritualistic, Occult
Musical Qualities: Dhrupad, Noisy, Acoustic, Improvisation, Dissonant
Instrumentation: Cello, Guitar, Violin, Tamboura, Electronics, Strumstick, Maestro Rhythm King, Vocals, Omnichord
Black Forest / Black Sea – Portmanteau Read More »
featuring Abdul Wadud, Fred Hopkins, Amina Claudine Myers, Steve McCall
Style: Avant-Garde Jazz
Moods: Colorful, Triumphant, Energetic, Spiritual,
Instrumentation: Alto Saxophone, Tuba, Cello, Drums, Upright Bass, Organ, Electric Guitar, Piano
Arthur Blythe – Blythe Spirit Read More »
Styles: Dream-Country, Singer/Songwriter, Neo-Psychedelia
Moods: Longing, Conversational, Heartfelt, Bittersweet, Colorful, Lonely, Warm, Rural, Dreamy, Introspective, Melancholy, Psychedelic
Musical Qualities: Lush, Vocal Harmonies, Lyrical
Edith Frost – Telescopic Read More »
Style: Wyrd Folk, Progressive Folk, Acid Folk
Moods: Forest, Sombre, Enchanting, Gloomy, Mystical, Medieval, sombre, Melancholy, Mellow, Mysterious
Style: Avant-Folk, Acid Folk, Free Folk
Moods: Cryptic, Thorny, Communal, Witchy, Anxious, Haunting, Ominous, Nocturnal, Eerie, Mystical, Psychedelic, Surreal, Shadow, Dark
Instrumentation: Acoustic Guitar, Banjo, Cello, Vocal Harmonies, Mbira, Zither, Percussion, Slide Guitar, Drums, Electric Guitar, Organ, Xylophone, Autoharp, Harmonium, Spike Fiddle, Thumb Piano, Lap Steel
Spires that in the Sunset Rise – Four Winds the Walker Read More »
This collective of experimental Seattle musicians perform back-porch seances on old-time jigs & folk tunes, half of which can be found in Alan Lomax’s Folk Songs of North America book. The ritualistic, droning dissonance of cello, banjo, harmonium, & fiddle recall Pelt, Henry Flynt, & Tongue Depressor. Despite an often haunting atmosphere, folksiness and camaraderie pervade the tape in the form of warm lo-fi sing-a-longs and friendly, candid banter between tracks. The original social function of the music lives eternally, a nonlinear communication with fellow travelers from the past, present, & future.
Friends of the Road – Now You Know Something Right Here and I’ll Tell You For a Fact Read More »
Styles: Art Pop, Progressive Songwriter, Ambient Pop, Chamber-Jazz (Influenced)
Moods: Nocturnal, Surreal, Elegant, Ethereal, Observational, Flowing, Alienation, Cryptic, Disaffected, Lonely, Longing, Melancholy, Mysterious, Poetic, Romantic, Winter
Musical Qualities: Lush, Orchestral, Progressive, Vocal Harmonies, Lyrical, Dynamic, Complex, Studio-as-an-Instrument
Instrumentation: Keyboards, Piano, Upright Bass, Violin, Cello, Drums, Saxophone, Trombone, Percussion, Group Vocals
Julia Holter – Loud City Song Read More »
Style: Psychedelic Jazz, Free-Psych, Post-Rock
Moods: Ritualistic, Mysterious, Serpentine, Nocturnal, Exploratory, Desert, Moody, Spiritual, Psychedelic
Musical Qualities: Percussive, Thematic, Collective Improvisation, Atmospheric, Rhythmic
Instrumentation: Drums, Tabla, Electric Piano, Chants, Trumpet, Electric Guitar, Classical Guitar, Electric Bass, Harmonica, Gong, Cello, Upright Bass, Flute, Organ, Piano, Bells, Teponaztli, Tambourine, Viola
Style: Singer/Songwriter, Alt-Country, Slowcore
Moods: Reflective, Sentimental, Rural, Lonely, Melancholy, Twangy, Romantic, Longing, Contemplative, Depressive, Heartfelt, Introspective, Love, Rootsy
Edith Frost – Wonder Wonder Read More »
featuring Billy Hart, Bennie Maupin, Badal Roy, Mtume, Michael Henderson, Jack DeJohnette, Herbie Hancock, Paul Buckmaster, John McLaughlin, Dave Liebman, Don Alias, Carlos Garnett, Collin Walcott, Khalil Balakrishna, Lonnie Liston Smith, Chick Corea
Style: Abstract Groove, Jazz Fission, Avant-Funk
Moods: Surreal, Urban, Hypnotic, Communal, Groovy, Colorful, Playful, Circular, Futuristic
Musical Qualities: Rhythmic, Repetitive, Dense, Improvisation, Instrumental, Studio-as-an-instrument
Miles Davis – On the Corner Read More »
featuring Bill Frisell, Alex Cline, Hank Roberts
Style: Jazz Fission, Avant-Garde Jazz
Moods: Gritty, Angular, Apocalyptic, Aggressive, Bombastic, Chaotic, Dark, Disorienting, Driving, Dystopian, Futuristic, Heavy, Intense, Urban
Musical Qualities: Dissonant, Improvisation, Uncommon Time Signatures, Progressive, Rhythmic
Tim Berne – Fulton Street Maul Read More »
Style: Americana, Singer/Songwriter, Alt-Country
Moods: Drifter, Surreal, Poetic, Twangy, Colorful, Eccentric, Sunny, Uplifting, Playful, Observational, Contemplative, Warm, Rural, Sentimental, Storytelling
Jim White – Waffles, Triangles & Jesus Read More »
Style: Free Folk, Ritual-Psych
Moods: Eerie, Forest, Nocturnal, Ritualistic, Witchy, Disturbing, Haunting, Communal, Pagan, Cryptic, Anxious, Surreal, Dark, Chaotic, Mysterious
Musical Qualities: Dissonant, Acoustic, Improvisation, Lo-Fi
Instrumentation: Cello, Violin, Acoustic Guitar, Autoharp, Melodica, Harmonium, Little Harp, Percussion, Mbira, Piano
Spires that in the Sunset Rise Read More »
Style: Spiritual Jazz, Avant-Garde Big Band
Moods: Triumphant, Communal, Spiritual, Uplifting, Epic, Warm
Musical Qualities: Polyphonic, Progressive, Uncommon Time Signatures, Live, Dense, Acoustic, Complex, Rhythmic, Thematic, Collective Improvisation, Orchestral
Instrumentation: Piano, Horns, Drums, Percussion, Upright Bass, Drums, Woodwinds, Cello
Horace Tapscott with the Pan-Afrikan Peoples Arkestra – Live at I.U.C.C. Read More »
Style: Free Jazz, Abstract Groove, Avant Jazz-Funk
Moods: Funky, Playful, Angular, Driving, Passionate, Intertwined, Eccentric, Triumphant, Uplifting, Knotty, Exploratory, Kinetic, Spiritual, Energetic
Musical Qualities: Thematic, Rhythmic, Uncommon Time Signatures, Progressive, Dense, Collective Improvisation, Technical
Arthur Blythe – Illusions Read More »
Style: Singer/Songwriter, Folk
Moods: Tender, Intimate, Bittersweet, Autumnal, Reflective, Lonely, Poetic, Breakup, Conversational, Lethargic, Loner, Longing, Love, Melancholy, Mellow, Brooding, Pastoral
Musical Qualities: Soft, Sparse, Lyrical, Vocal Harmonies, Acoustic
Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy – Master and Everyone Read More »
Style: Progressive Folk, Acid Folk, Psychedelic Chamber Music
Moods: Mysterious, Exploratory, Medieval, Mystical, Ancient, Brooding, Forest, Haunting, Serpentine, Ritualistic, Cinematic
Musical Qualities: Complex, Dense, Acoustic, Progressive, Percussive, Noisy, Improvisation
Instrumentation: Cello, Acoustic & Electric Guitars, Organ, Sho, Banjo, Renaissance Harp, Rauschpfeife, Crumhorn, Cornamuse, Hurdy Gurdy, Electronics, Darbuka, Riq, Frame Drum, Percussion, Recorder, Piano, Vocal Harmonies
Helena Espvall & Masaki Batoh – Overloaded Ark Read More »
Style: Singer/Songwriter, Americana
Moods: Observational, Peaceful, Reflective, Rustic, Mellow, Romantic, Joyful
Musical Qualities: Soft, Simple, Lush, Lyrical
Instrumentation: Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar, Saxophone, Upright Bass, Drums, Fiddle, Cello, Vocal Harmonies, Accordion
Jerry David DeCicca – The Unlikely Optimist and His Domestic Adventures Read More »
Style: Progressive Bluegrass, Folk, Americana
Moods: Rural, Rootsy, Sunny, Bittersweet, Energetic, Joyful, Storytelling, Summer, Warm
Instrumentation: Acoustic Guitar, Mandolin, Fiddle, Cello, Banjo, Dobro
Norman Blake – Old and New Read More »
Style: Ritual Psych, Nordic Folk, Free Folk
Feelings: Pantheistic, Ceremonial, Forest, Hypnotic, Exploratory, Earthy, Mystical, Mysterious, Rootsy, Surreal, Tribal, Spiritual
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Chants, Percussive, Dub Fx, Repetitive
Joakim Skogsberg – Jola rota Read More »
Style: Chamber Pop, Ambient Pop
Moods: Sentimental, Bittersweet, Mellow, Reflective, Ethereal, Flowing, Dreamy, Passionate, Sad
Musical Qualities: Soft, Slow, Lush, Lyrical, Polished, Dynamic
Instrumentation: Synthesizers, Electric Guitar, Drums, Trumpet, Upright Bass, Fender Rhodes, Organ, Cello, Trombone, Euphonium, Tuba, Baritone Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone
The Antlers – Familiars Read More »
Style: Ritual Folk, Experimental Songwriter
Mood: Nocturnal, Ritualistic, Shadowy, Occult, Dark, Alchemical, Mystical, Sombre, Funereal
Musical Qualities: Slow, Microtonal, Droney, Lyrical, Dissonant, Acoustic
Jaköb Battick & Tongue Depressor – Raise the Dead Read More »
Featured Musicians: Jeff Parker, Junius Paul, Brandee Younger, Joel Ross, Marta Sofia Honer, etc
Styles: Orchestral Beat Music, Jazz Fusion, Spiritual Jazz
Mood: Spring, Cinematic, Warm, Uplifting, Spiritual, Groovy, Peaceful
Musical Qualities: Lush, Suite, Sampling, Rhythmic, Orchestral, Instrumental, Beats, Studio-as-an-Instrument
Makaya McCraven – In These Times Read More »
features vocals from Bill Callahan, Emily Cross (Loma), Adam Torres, & Julia Holter
Style: Haunted Folk, Ambient Americana, Southern Gothic
Moods: Desolate, Bleak, Haunting, Western, Cinematic, Stark, Sombre, Rustic, Melancholy, Brooding, Contemplative, Depressive, Nocturnal, Alienation, Dystopian, Impressionistic, Lonely, Moody, Mournful, Mythic, Noir, Personal
Musical Qualities: Suite, Atmospheric, Slow, Sampling, Electro-acoustic, Droney
Style: Art Pop, Spiritual Jazz, Dub Poetry, Collage Pop
Moods: Triumphant, Conversational, Uplifting, Conscious, Communal, Heartfelt, Passionate, Hypnotic, Intertwined, Intimate, Intricate, Playful, Rebellious, Love, Poetic, Reflective, Soothing, Spiritual, Warm,
Musical Qualities: Suite, Improvisation, Analogue Recording, Tape Edits, Dub Production, Sound Collage, Thematic, Polished, Catchy
Instrumentation: Saxophone, Spoken Word, Upright Bass, Drums, Group Vocals, Tabla, Synthesizers, Percussion, Guitar, Cello
Alabaster DePlume – GOLD Read More »
Style: Progressive Chamber-Folk
Moods: Imaginative, Reflective, Cryptic, Evocative, Cathartic, Sombre, Introspective, Haunting, Dreamy, Poetic, Surreal, Ethereal
Musical Qualities: Lush, Progressive, Acoustic, Dense, Technical, Polished
Instrumentation: Nylon Guitar, Piano, Drums, Bassoon, Upright Bass, Cello, Synthesizer
Daniel Rossen – You Belong There Read More »
Style: Avant-garde Chamber Jazz, Afro-Carribean Jazz, Gwoka
Moods/Themes: Ancestry, Ritualistic, Meditative, Hypnotic, Communal, Rootsy, Poetic, Sombre, Elegant, Flowing, Warm, Mystical
Musical Qualities: Polyrhythmic, Percussive, Acoustic, Repetitive, Improvisation, Technical
Instrumentation: Upright Bass, Bèlè Drum, Ka Drum, Trumpet, Tenor Saxophone, Vocals, Cello, Violin
Sélène Saint-Aimé – Potomitan Read More »
Style: Ethereal Country, Psychedelic Folk, Slowcore, Singer-Songwriter, Dream Pop
Vibe: Enchanting, Dreamy, Hypnotic, Forest, Wistful, Brooding, Western, Nocturnal, Sensual, Lethargic, Soothing, Melancholy, Reflective, Autumnal, Ethereal, Desert, Romantic, Bittersweet, Spectral
Musical Qualities: Slow, Lush, Soft, Atmospheric, Vocal Harmonies, Lyrical
Instrumentation: Slide Guitar, Vibraphone, Keyboards, Electric & Acoustic Guitars, Bass, Drums, Cello
Hope Sandoval & the Warm Inventions – Until the Hunter Read More »
Style: Free-Folk, Ritual-Drone
Vibe: Nature, Mystical, Ritualistic, Dreamy, Forest, Hallucinogenic, Nocturnal, Hypnotic, Sombre
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Droney, Repetitive, Mantra, Electroacoustic
Instrumentation: Harmonium, Vocals, Guitar, Harp, Cello, Flute
Fursaxa – Mycorrhizae Realm Read More »
Style: Avant-Garde Jazz, Modern Creative
Vibe: Suspenseful, Mysterious, Hypnotic, Intertwined, Open, Abstract, Bluesy (Side B)
Musical Qualities: Dynamic, Polyphonic, Thematic, Collective Improvisation, Percussive, Rhythmic, Acoustic, Instrumental
Julius Hemphill – ‘Coon Bid’ness Read More »
Style: Singer/Songwriter
HGM Side: Americana, Warm, Contemplative, Sunny, Rural, Passionate, Spiritual, Introspective
Chapman Side: Chamber Folk, Melancholy, Morning, Mellow, Autumnal, Reflective, Storytelling
Hiss Golden Messenger / Michael Chapman – Parallelogram Read More »
Style: Chamber Jazz, Solo Cello
Vibe: Longing, Contemplative, Elegant, Focused, Introspective, Driving, Passionate, Searching
Musical Qualties: Virtuosic, Acoustic, Sparse, Instrumental, Improvisation, Dynamic, Rhythmic, Melodic
Dave Holland – Life Cycle Read More »
Vibe: Anthemic, Communal, Uplifting, Colorful, Celebratory, Spiritual, Mournful, Healing, Bittersweet
Musical Qualities: Improvisation, Thematic, Percussive, Acoustic, Lush, Instrumental
Instrumentation: Percussion, Drums, Trumpet, Keyboard, Piano, Cello, Upright Bass, Violin, Baritone Saxophone, Alto Saxophone, Flute, String Quartet
Style: Spiritual Jazz
Kahil El’Zabar’s Ethnic Heritage Ensemble – America the Beautiful Read More »
Style: Chamber Pop, Post-Rock, Chamber Jazz, Singer/Songwriter
Vibe: Reflective, Warm, Intertwined, Nature, Breezy, Spiritual, Morning, Apocalyptic, Uplifting
Musical Qualities: Lush, Soft, Suite, Melodic
Instrumentation: Vocals, Soprano Saxophone, Piano, Trumpet, Upright Bass, Electric Guitar, Drums, Cello, Reed Organ, Viola, Alto Saxophone, Bass Clarinet
Modern Nature – Island of Noise Read More »
Style: Modern Creative, Chamber Jazz, Experimental Big Band, Great Black Music, Avant-Garde Classical
Vibe: Communal, Triumphant, Suspenseful, History, Eclectic, Colorful, Intricate, Ritualistic, Patient, Open, Complex, Theatric
Musical Qualities: Poly-Free Improvisation, Dynamic, Collective, Progressive Structures, Technical, Orchestral, Percussive, Reductionism, Suite, Polyphonic
Instrumentation: Trumpets, Upright Bass, Spoken Word, Operatic Vocals, Drums, Percussion, Saxophone, Cello, Violin, Viola
The Art Ensemble of Chicago – We Are On the Edge Read More »
Style: Free Jazz
Vibe: Hypnotic, Ritualistic, Driving, Intertwined, Fire, Mystical, Powerful, Complex
Musical Qualities: Ostinato, Collective Improvisation, Thematic, Uncommon Time Signatures, Acoustic, Repetitive, Polyphonic, Rhythmic
Instrumentation: Alto Saxophone, Cello, Trumpet, Drums, Flute
Julius Hemphill – Dogon A.D. Read More »
Style: Free Folk, Mystical Americana, Drone, Free Improvisation, Post-Rock
Vibe: Weary, Hopeful, Rustic, Communal, Spiritual, Ragged, Eerie, Melancholy, Deconstructed, Hypnotic, Communal, Haunting, Raw, Suspenseful, Intertwined
Musical Qualities: Collective Improvisation, Dynamic, Lo-Fi, Atmospheric, Droney, Group Vocals, Dub FX
Instrumentation: Electric Guitars, Vibraphone, Flute, Drums, Violin, Cello, Clarinet, Saxophone, Banjo, Melodica, Sitar, Electronics, Turntable, Keyboards, Trumpet, Electric Bass
Jackie-O Motherfucker – Liberation Read More »
Style: Chamber Folk, Slowcore, Dream Country
Vibe: Flowing, Lethargic, Peaceful, Dreamy, Melancholy, Elegant, Airy, Romantic, Bittersweet, Contemplative, Intertwined, Intimate, Mellow, Sentimental, Smooth, Soothing, Twangy
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Lush, Slow, Soft, Simple, Chamber Arrangements, Melodic
Damon & Naomi – Within These Walls Read More »
Style: Chamber Folk, Spiritual Folk, English Folk
Vibe: Mystical, Medieval, Warm, Spring, Intimate, Mellow, Morning, Spiritual
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Lush, Vocal Harmonies, Progressive
Instrumentation: Organ, Banjo, Acoustic Guitar, Dulcitar, Recorder, Electric Bass, Washboard, Drum, Bongos, Tambourine, Cello, Indian Hand Organ
C.O.B. – Spirit of Love Read More »
Style: Chamber Pop, Prog-Pop, Jazz Pop, Singer-Songwriter
Vibe: Lush, Warm, Sunny, Sci-Fi, Playful, Philosophical, Surreal, Energetic, Imaginative
Musical Qualities: Progressive, Dense, Catchy, Complex, Melodic, Dense, Technical, Rhythmic
Instrumentation: Piano, Vibraphone, Drums, Flute, Rhodes, Electric & Acoustic Bass, Saxophone, Clarinet, Violin, Cello , Synthesizers, Steel Drum, French Horn
Eiko Ishibashi – Imitation of Life Read More »
2 Thelonious Monk compositions & 3 originals, featuring Joseph & Lester Bowie, Charles Bobo Shaw, & Abdul Wadud (Cello)
Style: Post-Bop, Free Jazz, Jazz Fusion (B2)
Vibe: Energetic, Spontaneous, Playful, Passionate, Groovy
Musical Qualities: Improvisation, Dynamic, Rhythmic
Frank Lowe – Fresh Read More »
Style: Free Folk, Psychedelic Electroacoustic Music, Post-Minimalism
Vibe: Forest, Ritualistic, Visceral, Hypnotic, Mystical
Musical Qualities: Loops, Electro-acoustic, Extended Techniques, Suite, Electro-Acoustic, Repetitive
Instrumentation: Flute, Cello, Saxophone, Keyboards, Vocals
Spires that in the Sunset Rise – Beasts in the Garden Read More »
On this self-titled collaboration, acid folk luminaries Helena Espvall (Espers) and Masaki Batoh (Ghost) create mysterious and earthy interpretations of traditional Medieval, Swedish, Japanese, and Finnish folk songs, plus a Son House cover, an original, and a handful of free improvisations.
Helena Espvall & Masaki Batoh Read More »
Style: Psychedelic / Chamber Folk
Vibe: Pastoral, Spiritual, Sentimental, Haunting, Medieval, Spring, Peaceful
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Progressive, Improvisation
Instrumentation: Acoustic Guitar, Cello, Flutes (Kaval, Recorder), Hurdy Gurdy, Drums, Piano, Tanpura, Analogue Synthesizers, Electric Guitar, Tympani, Vibes
Ghost – Tune In, Turn On, Free Tibet Read More »
Style: Avant-Garde Jazz, Afro-Jazz, Experimental Big Band
Influences: Ghanaian Music & other West African Music, Hindustani & Carnatic Music, Spiritual Jazz
Vibe: Ritualistic, Communal, Hypnotic, Intertwined, Spiritual
Musical Qualities: Polyrhythmic, Improvisation, Repetitive, Percussive, Polyphonic, Acoustic
Bitter Funeral Beer Band – Live in Frankfurt 1982 Read More »
Style: Drone Rock, Post-Rock
Vibe: Meditative, Desert, Hypnotic, Soothing, Spiritual, Western, Lethargic, Determined, Psychedelic
Musical Qualities: Slow, Riffs, Repetition, Improvisation, Minimalistic, Instrumental
Earth – Angels of Darkness, Demons of Light I Read More »
Style: Experimental Rock, Post Rock
Vibe: Cathartic, Visceral, Spiritual, Brooding, Shadowy, Apocalyptic, Ritualistic, Suspenseful, Climactic, Dark, Powerful, Heavy, Cryptic, Philosophical, Surreal, Epic, Hypnotic, Sombre, Meditative, Mysterious, Monolithic, Longing, Existential, Disorienting
Musical Qualities: Dynamic, Repetitive, Dense, Crescendo, Rhythmic, Droney
Swans – The Glowing Man Read More »
Style: Avant-Garde Big Band, Spiritual Jazz, Vocal Jazz (A2)
Vibe: Spiritual, Communal, Epic, Passionate, Active Listening, Energetic, Religious, Triumphant
Musical Qualities: Polyphonic, Complex, Dense, Acoustic, Thematic, Improvisation, Melodic, Technical, Orchestral
Horace Tapscott & the Pan-Afrikan Peoples Arkestra – The Call Read More »
Style: Psychedelic Chamber-Folk
Vibe: Haunting, Pastoral, Melancholy, Rainy, Delicate, Intimate, Psychedelic, Intertwined
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Slow, Soft, Electro-Acoustic, Sampling, Home Recording
Instrumentation: Acoustic Guitar, Vocals, Cello, Turntables, Banjo, Tanpura, Violin, Singing Bowls, Percussion, Dulcimer, Bouzouki, Organ, Wine Glasses
The Iditarod – The Ghost, the Elf, the Cat and the Angel Read More »
Style: Space Rock, Free Rock, Kosmische Musik
Vibe: Primordial, Mysterious, Exploratory, Cold, Desolate, Cosmic, Suspenseful, Meandering, Abstract, Amorphous, Cinematic, Psychedelic, Murky
Musical Qualities: Atmospheric, Improvisation, Instrumental, Dissonant, Noisy, Raw, Studio-as-an-Instrument
Tangerine Dream – Electronic Meditation Read More »
Style: Creative Music, Chamber Jazz, Free Jazz, Post-Bop
Vibe: Colorful, Sentimental, Impressionistic, Eclectic, Energetic, Introspective
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Dynamic, Poly-free Improvisation, Complex, Spacious
Muhal Richard Abrams – Colors in Thirty-Third Read More »