Gray Field Recordings, The – “Hypnagogia” – [AntiClock Records]

We’re lucky to have a copy of this very-limited (now unavailable) 2005 release on AntiClock. Formed in 2001 by R. Loftiss, Gray Field Recordings, creates an interesting mood on this album, with a range of sounds and emotions that have a strong sense of narrative, as if the complete piece is weaving a mysterious tale.

It’s both pastoral and spooky, nautical and tribal, equine and cowboy. Tracks vary tremendously, with “Bloodstream” starting out with buried female vocals and evolving into nature sounds, static, bells, and ghostly creepiness. “Ring Bells” features flute and strong drumming, giving it a Native American flavor. “In Exodus” reminds me of the Helen Mirra 10″ “Stowaway“, as we hear what sounds like a boat creaking in the sea. Other pieces are more folky, with pretty female vocals and sad strings. And, yet another includes a sampled country song with the refrain “you have suffered.” There’s also some spoken story-telling, with themes related to horses, waves, and dunes. An impressive effort, with so many elements working to create an intense, beautifully crafted piece of art.