by Ben Hogwood

What’s the story?

It All Levels Out is described as ‘a hopeful meditation on getting older’ by its composer, David Edwards. This is Edwards’ tenth album under the Minotaur Shock pseudonym, and by common consensus is his most personal and reflective album to date.

Influences on his compositional approach this time around are quoted to be Hiroshi Yoshimura, Steve Reich, West Mineral Limited, Visible Cloaks and Bark Psychosis.

Edwards describes his music as an acceptance of finally knowing yourself, an approach of equal parts ambience and confidence.

What’s the music like?

This is music where the mind can immediately kick back – though it still rewards close-up listening. Edwards works with a refreshing palette of textures and colours, using quite minimal riffs to power his music but giving them room to grow as the tracks evolve.

Because of that it’s easy to equate his music with living, growing plants – which the title track embodies, with the way it expands gradually from soft, primitive beginnings. The ambling piano is like an easily moving stream.

As the album progresses we get more of Edwards’ subtly voiced creativity, from the melodic ideas that take root on Memory Crates, which is more bleeps and dots, to the brightly lit activity on Moral Progress.

Recognise You Anywhere takes time out, Edwards evoking dappled light through colourings that certainly sound more Japanese in origin, especially when they grow in stature. Molding Physical Air enjoys a similar profile, while Launching The Kids carries greater weight. The closing With Me is initially darker but ultimately wistful.

Does it all work?

It does. Edwards is a subtle companion, shading each piece of music rather beautifully with layers of carefully chosen instrumental colour. When you stand back, you can appreciate the whole as well as the construction.

Is it recommended?

It is, enthusiastically. It’s great to have Minotaur Shock back, and the pastoral overtones of this album are beautifully weighted and suited for this time of year, extending their tendrils into the northern hemisphere autumn.

For fans of… Bibio, Boards of Canada, Baths, Grasscut

Listen & Buy

Published post no.2,342 – Friday 25 October 2024