On this new tape by Polypores, you’re treated to melodic synth sound baths, chill field recordings and expansive kosmische explorations.

Polypores is the ambient project of the multifaceted Stephen James Buckley, who certainly understands how to paint images and set vibes with his instruments. Once this record begins, a great astral kaleidoscope of blipping, pulsing electronic sounds blooms open like a flower, and flows into a trickling, babbling brook of stars and soft light. There’s a warmth to these recordings, chiefly due to the abundant use of a modular synthesizer. This gives much of the music a familiar feeling, like the soundtrack to a vintage space documentary made for schools.

The record carries a meditative and soothing tone that remains constant throughout the album’s ever shifting styles and flavors. The sheer variety of tempos, modes and atmospheres on this record keeps the listening experience as interesting as it is calming. A must for all modular synth ambient heads.

-KH