Ambient US - Review by Dodds Wiley
(12/03/04)

THE REALITY TEMPLES
Richard Bone

     Richard Bone makes fantastic electronica works that defy genres and are fun to listen to. Bone writes "My intention was to create a work that blended my love of 60's psychedelia with my previous ambient stylings." Bone has created another splendid nine track set that shows off his superb musicianship and compositional skills.

     There are many great tracks, starting with the breezy beats and jazzy synth melodies of "Infinite Oz". Next is the spicy downtempo "Between The World And A Wall", with it's sitar and filmic string sounds. "A Boy In The Garden Of Gastille" follows, with it's wistful melodies giving way to percolating Middle Eastern percussion and a sinewy beat. The sixth track "Come Back Little Shiva" has a swaggering beat with pulsing bass and snake charmer melodies. Journey across the sands in "Theme For An Imaginary Caravan", with it's haunting melodies and stately rhythm. Every track on this disc is excellent, and there are a couple of bonus MP3 tracks as well.

     Most tracks make the listener think off far-off lands and veiled mysteries, yet there is a definite sense of playfulness to this work. Highly recommended, it is a choice listen on headphones, with intricate and exotic arrangements. Kudos to Cameron Akhunaton (of ambient.us!) for his handsome artwork on this release. This is a great addition to any ambient music lover's collection and a nice little escape to exotic sonic locales. Sound samples and ordering at www.spiralight.com.

Reviewed by Dodds Wiley
12/03/04