Genre/Influences: Soundscape, Cinematographic, Dark-Ambient, Experimental.
Format: Digital, CD.
Background/Info: This is the fourth Vidna Obmana album reissue by the Polish label Zoharum. Vidna Obmana (Aka Dirk Serries) originally released this album in 2003 via Klanggalerie as collaboration with David Lee Myers. “Tracers” has been recovered from dust and remastered by the Belgian musician. American artist David Lee Myers is maybe a little less known, but also has an impressive discography.
Content: The work features 8 tracks, which have been simply entitled from “Sector 01” till “Sector 08”. The tracks have been progressively built up, sometimes getting the sensation of haunting through endless sonic corridors. Sometimes mysterious and even freaky, the composition also features numerous field recordings. The last part of the work sounds darker and becomes more visual.
+ + + : Both artists have accomplished an impressive list of collaborative productions, but the least I can say about this common work, is that it sounds complementary. There’s a real match between protagonists, resulting in a poignant and spooky production. I like the subtle sound treatments and delicate passages, which quite progressively are getting darker while accentuating the visual strength of the production. The last track is a masterpiece in its genre. I got the sensation walking throughout an abandoned city, a kind of post-apocalyptic world dominated by ghosts. Last, but not least I have to say a word about the great, but sober artwork of this reissue, the artwork being a true trademark of Zoharum.
– – – : The only little, but essential point this work is missing is a total climax. Some passages are a bit monotone, but not for too long.
Conclusion: This is the kind of work reminding us of the genius of Vidna Obmana, which is a project we’re missing. But “Tracers” remains a fascinating collaboration between two talented artists.
Best songs: “Sector 08”, “Sector 05”, “Sector 03”, “Sector 01”.
Rate: (7½).
Artists: www.facebook.com/Dirk-Serries-208662235870103 / https://www.pulsewidth.com / www.facebook.com/david.myers.9465
Label: www.zoharum.com / www.facebook.com/zoharum
