STRANDED UNDER ENDLESS SKY

On Stranded Under Endless Sky the post rock-ambient unit Hammock presents a nice blend of sounds, layers and melancholia. Tracks flow beautifully from start to finish, with just enough variation added to keep them thoroughly interesting. Not being really a fan of the genre and its nearest relatives, this album was a surprisingly good find. The title track sets the mood for some fine blue ambience. I imagine a man walking alone in soft rain, wondering his life. Then follows Birds Flying In Sequence, my favourite track here, which uses some drum loops in the background of a guitar groove to create again a layer of deep emotions. The third track, good but nothing particularly interesting, serves as a bridge to An Empty Field, which is just plain nine minutes of epicness. Lots of echoes and ambience, topped by some beautiful guitar playing. After listening to this album I feel a sense of wonder and focus, something not very often found through music. For those who like instrumental and calm music Hammock is definitely something to check out.