Here we have our second investigation into the mystical world of the Texas-based Aural Canyon label. This time around, we are probing the nocturnal wanderings of Spanish sound weaver Daniel Guillén, who records as Lunaria. With Mist and Light, Guillén expresses a thoughtful nod to the space our mind inhabits when it is hovering between wakefulness and sleep. The four pieces he offers were realized over the course of three years as he explored what he refers to as the “harmonious relationship between darkness and clarity, mist and light, unconsciousness and lucidity”. Each is a unique take on this inward journey toward nocturnal rest, an encapsulation of deep introspection into how our consciousness drifts toward unconsciousness.
The tape leads off with “Lullaby for the Clouds”, a drifting piece of ambient bliss, complete with lilting melodies, lush synths, and a deep heartbeat of a bass line. Layers of sound roll in like a welcome fog over a pristine body of water, the sense of tranquility being enhanced by each element. This track is love incarnate. “Numinous” takes on somewhat of a darker tone, with uncanny melodies that feel suspenseful. The thick synths are woven together with a cinematic sensibility that is quite intense.
On the flip is the eponymous track, a slightly alien but ultimately angelic piece of music. A sprightly rhythmic element is played against elegiac chords and a delicate melodic lead. Choral pads emphasize the heavenly nature of this gorgeous track. “Secret Path” is also quite beautiful, but in a somewhat mysterious, almost playful way. Droplets of melody are sprinkled gingerly across cascading waves of synthetic chords, which emanate like contrails from Guillén’s delicate fingertips. This wave-like undulation seemed to sync up with my own brainwaves, lulling me into an almost hypnagogic state – but I guess that’s ultimately the intent here.
You too can explore inner space with Lunaria; head on over to the Aural Canyon Bandcamp and prepare to be entranced.
