Extra Stars [CD]

Gregory Uhlmann - Extra Stars [CD]

Extra Stars is Gregory Uhlmann’s solo debut on International Anthem. It’s a deep and gorgeous expansion of the LA-based multi-instrumentalist producer / composer’s rhythmic ambient side, as nascently explored in his much-lauded duo with Meg Duffy, his trio work with Josh Johnson and Sam Wilkes, and in the gentler moments of SML (the improvising trance-jazz unit of which he is a member). A radiant sidereal serenade, the album’s fourteen miniature infinities swirl serendipitous synthesis and measured, melody-rich song into a panoramic menagerie of sound. For a record that seldom incorporates percussion instrumentals, the music is distinctly rhythm-forward, while Uhlmann also leans heavily into swaths of pastoral beauty. Extra care was clearly poured into the kind of harmonic depth that’s often missing from vibe-only “ambient” music, making for a delightfully refreshing take on the electronic, processing-heavy quiet sound. 1. Pocket Snail 2. View Above 3. Lucia (feat. Alabaster DePlume) 4. Like Tea 5. Days 6. Worms Eye 7. Burnt Toast 8. Dottie 9. Bristlecone 10. Voice Exchange 11. View Below 12. Back Scratch 13. Imprint 14. Sugar Water