Gavin Miller Meander Scars

UK ambient folk tunesmith Gavin Miller makes his Lost Tribe Sound debut with the meditative rustic charms of Meander Scars. The sparse, eight-song instrumental album is split in half — the first four lengthy compositions billed as "Upper Course I-IV," and the latter, "Lower Course I-IV."
 
The "Upper Course" movement is a more dynamically engaging affair, with labelmate Aaron Martin lending his exceptional bowing skills to the cause. That's not to suggest that the second movement is inferior in any way though — it's a matter of mood and intent.
 
"Lower Course" is, naturally, a lower-key affair, letting ambient synth pads and noise textures back Miller's delicate guitar work. Overall, it's a lovely album to relax to, unobtrusive enough not to take centre stage, but full of enough melody and gripping sound design to keep from becoming audio wallpaper. Give it a listen, and make sure to check out "Upper Course III" if you miss early Broken Social Scene. (Lost Tribe Sound)

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