Solarism Review At Angry Ape

Angry Ape



Craig Murphy, the Scots-based multi-talented musician/producer behind Solipsism may describe his recorded output as eclectic or experimental, but it is much more interesting than that. Murphy is nothing if not prolific, as well as Solipsism he divides his time between audio/visual vehicle Weird Fields, ambient-folk-electronic troupe shoosh and his main record label Herb Recordings. He also runs the free-spirited Ambidextrous collective, who intend to build upon the ‘pay what you want’ foundations lay by Radiohead. It’s his alternative imprint that provides the home for his last outing as Solipsism, for the foreseeable future at least, as he concentrates on shoosh and growing Herb (pun actually not intended) into Scotland’s premier label.

Much of Solipsism’s previous recorded output was borne out of collaboration and Murphy continues these trends on “Solarism”, working with Cardiff Techno warrior The Hidden Persuader on the brooding darkwave glitch of “Destruct Science”, while roping in White Label Music stalwart Jash on “Delusions Outermind”

Of his solo contributions, “Crystalism” is the most direct track, coming across like an aggressive, no nonsense Boards of Canada. Those distant synths that hallmark previous releases are intact here, layering themselves almost out of sync with the programmed beats, yet remaining cohesive. “Exit Strategy” is different again, employing thick mid-90’s beats over dripping melodies that slightly recall Wendy Carlos’ “Clockwork Orange” phase.

Although this release may lack a truly classic Solipsism number (nothing on this record touches the majesty of “At the Beach”, “Glass Rod” or “Electricity Flows in Squares”) Murphy signs this project off in style with the nostalgic “Sun Up”, allowing this piece to slowly drift out towards the horizon, while retaining that mechanistic edge that we have become accustomed to. Despite “Solarism’s” relatively short existence it is encouraging to note Solipsism has lost none of its ethereal charm. There is a feeling that there is still much to be said from this project, but for now you can grab this release free along with several others over at the Ambidextrous site.

Solarism Track Listing:

1. Exit Strategy
2. Destruct Science (Feat. The Hidden Persuader)
3. Crystalism
4. Delusions Outermind (Feat. Jash)
5. Sun Up