Reviewed by Ben Hogwood

What’s the story?

Sunbeam Of No Illusion takes its title from correspondence between Ralph Emerson and Walt Whitman, which is described as “cheeky acknowledgement of the mutual admiration of this project’s partnership”.

For this is the first time Ben Seretan and John Thayer have worked together directly on a project, though their musical paths have crossed on occasion before. Here, they blend largely spontaneous instrumental thoughts with field recordings, literally throwing open the studio door to let the light in – the sunbeam of the title, perhaps. The list of instruments used gives an idea of the density of the project, and the variety of sounds open for use:

Ben Seretan is credited with Fender Rhodes Piano, Moog Matriarch, Juno 106, Supro Lap Steel, Lowrey Organ, Teenage Engineering KOII, Electric Guitar and Assorted Guitar Pedals, while Thayer is listed on Lexicon Prime Time, Delta Labs Effectron II, Crystal Rattles, Temple Block, Brushes, Grass Shakers, Field Recordings, Digitakt, Modular Synthesizer, Tape Echo and Tascam Porta Studio.

What’s the music like?

Extremely restful. This is the musical equivalent of sitting under a big tree in warm weather. There is a breath of breeze here and there, and occasionally the leaves part to reveal a warm burst of sunshine – or they might close in with an unexpected chill.

Whatever happens, the music is drenched in appealing, consonant harmonies and warm textures, beckoning the listener out into the open. Some of these figures are elusive, such as on Memory Garden or Little Winds, where the music floats delicately and wisps of melody make themselves known. The electronic breeze on Valley Spirit is immediately appealing, while the closing Peat Fire, an evocative number with cymbals imitating kindling, is a beauty.

Does it all work?

The unhurried nature of this music is an antidote to fast-paced living, with Seretan and Thayer’s instinctive improvisations unfolding in their own sweet time.

Is it recommended?

It is. An album where the listener can get close to the wind and the trees without having to leave the room they are in, basking in the delights of what Ben Seretan and John Thayer have created. Their descriptive musical pictures are an ambient delight.

Listen / Buy

Published post no.2,843 – Tuesday 31 March 2026