The Silent Ballet IX

i wrote about The Silent Ballet compilation series in an early entry on this blog. since that writing, a few new volumes have appeared, and i wanted to take a moment to spotlight the latest addition to the series, which really caught my ear recently. The Silent Ballet series (in collaboration with the Lost Children netlabel) has featured a lot of excellent artists, but in the past the series has suffered from some inconsistency in both musical style and quality. not so with this edition-- there is not one misplaced track on this compilation. The Silent Ballet IX is an absolutely beautiful collection of tracks which delicately combine strings and orchestral sounds with minimal electronics in a quiet post-rock sensibility. the compilation maintains a very cohesive, classical-inspired sound; each carefully selected track is an exquisite composition on its own, which also perfectly compliments the others. from the repressed intensity of the Bersarin Quartett, to the plaintive strains of Redhooker, to the soaring violins and piano arpeggios of Bosques de mi Mente, this is dream music for your nights and days.

Josh Elliott - These Stars, Our Flame

Josh Elliott writes music for the explosive climax of the next psychological thriller film; epic and cinematic are the key words here. Josh plays guitar in the emo/screamo band April Dead, so its no wonder that his recent full-length, These Stars, Our Flame is replete with non-stop blistering emotion. one is sometimes left exhausted, wishing for a few more moments of calm amongst the endless soaring climaxes, but the intricate song structures and excellent production values make for a thrilling 30 minute's listen.
for a shorter trip through more keyboard and guitar-laden soundscapes, dont miss Josh's debut on Lost Children, In Light Passing.

Noe Venable - The Summer Storm Journals

on the other side of the spectrum of music for autumn, veteran songstress Noe Venable proves that brilliant songwriting and a beautiful, expressive voice never get old. her newest album, 'The Summer Storm Journals' has been stuck in my head ever since it was released earlier this season. even if you are like me and very rarely buy actual cds, i highly recommend adding this album to your collection. along with 'bring me the workhorse' from my brightest diamond, it has become one of my most listened-to releases this year. this is quality music that i believe could appeal to everyone- melancholy without being depressing, dark but hopeful, childlike but not immature, all the while absolutely uncompromising in style, individuality and vision. Noe is kind enough to offer two complete songs for free download on her website. after a few listens, they will most likely be lodged in your head, leaving you with a curious longing to discover more....