Altered Zones

Leyland Kirby has brought to tape some of the most essential deconstructed ambient music to date. This is exactly what's surprising about the first entry to a new series he's entitled Intrigue & Stuff. The first of four 12" releases, Vol. 1 delves into analog synth tones, skittering beats, and even a John Denver reinterpretation? Sure, it's a departure, but Kirby lends all these idioms his ear for divining sadness and capturing the crumbling edges of emotion. It's some of his most ambitious recordings yet and he proves that no matter what angle he tackles, Kirby is one of the top electronic musicians of his day. These are limited, and will be going fast so pick one up! Keep on the lookout for Kirby this year, as he's got two albums on the way under his Caretaker moniker, plus three more 12" LPs and another album as Leyland Kirby. --Andy French, Raven Sings The Blues

MP3: Leyland Kirby: "Ruined Visions"

Intrigue & Stuff is available from Insound