Pete Namlook Silence V

I have to admit from the outset that I'm not too familiar with P.N.'s output generally and if there are 4 previous 'Silences' 'V' is my first point of contact with the series. 'Aspendos' opens the set with long sustained notes, vaguely ominous bass and restrained ethnic textures which very gradually unfold and morph throughout the 13.01 minutes. Changes are evident as Namlook, almost subliminally, restructures the components without altering the atmosphere which is predominantly moody, low key, and meditative. 'While Angels Sleep' is the most gloriously relaxing experience I've had in a long time. This should be available on prescription for those leading overstressed lives and if it could be condensed into a tablet it could probably cure insomnia too. Even more minimalist that its predecessor, a simple lilting bassline is accompanied by heavenly textures which gradually ascend and descend the stairway to heaven.

'Master of the Sky' is more cinematic and is an uplifting widescreen soundtrack with brief melodramatic narration and keyboard improvisation. 'Ancient Beauty' returns to the earlier more spartan style but with a little more gravitas provided by denser textures and percussion. Finally, 'Picnic' incorporates gentle environmental sounds,such as birdsong, to create a more genteel ambience not dissimilar to Roedelius' 'Jardin au fou' only with guitar and a simple bassline.