By MusicForecast
Sounds of Infinity:
Bernie Krause - Citadels Of Mystery
" Sounds of Infinity " showcases some of the most memorable and timeless albums in music history, exploring the infinite possibilities of music and unforgettable moments captured on vinyl.
The first episode of " Sounds of Infinity " features electronic music pioneer Bernie Krause's masterpiece album , Citadels of Mystery . Krause explores a magnificent world of sounds that combines the sounds of nature with synthesizers, inviting listeners on a musical journey.
Exploring sonic architecture: Bernie Krause - Citadels of Mystery
Bernie Krause 's 1979 album Citadels of Mystery is a unique and enduring fusion of electronic music and field recordings. The album represents Krause's innovation in pushing the boundaries of what was possible in music through his forward-thinking approach to natural sounds and synthesizers.
Who is Bernie Krause?
Bernie Krause is known as a pioneer of electronic music and a leading figure in field recording. He originally started his career as a folk musician, but in the 1960s he was part of the electronic music duo "Beaver & Krause." His work, which was one of the earliest to incorporate the Moog synthesizer, was used in numerous film scores and commercials.
Krause revolutionized the relationship between music and the environment by introducing the idea of the sounds of the natural world as "music." His field recordings reflect the diverse ecosystems of the planet and have had a profound influence on contemporary music and environmental activism.
The world of "Citadels of Mystery"
The album is a sonic journey inspired by the ancient ruins of Peru and Mexico. Krause combines recorded natural and environmental sounds from the ruins with synthesizers to create soundscapes that transport the listener back in time.
Track Review
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Side I: Machu Picchu Suite
A1. Festival of the Sun (6:11)
The album opens with an epic track about the Inca Festival of the Sun. Field recordings of nature and synthesizers combine to evoke the solemnity of an ancient ceremony. The sounds of wind and drums evoke the energy of the festival, transporting the listener to the peaks of the Andes.
A2. Heights of Machu Picchu (3:58)
This song depicts the majestic landscape of Machu Picchu and its misty silence. The soft melody of the synthesizer perfectly expresses the mysticism and historical weight of the ruins.
A3. Flight to Urubamba (4:58)
This thrilling track is about an aerial journey to the Urubamba Valley, with fast-paced rhythms and electronic sounds that vividly evoke the sense of adventure and exhilaration of the journey.
Side II
B1. Jambo, Jambo (Zimbabwe, Africa) (7:08)
This song is inspired by the rich musical culture of Africa, especially Zimbabwe. The sounds of animals and nature collected through field recordings are fused with synthesizer rhythms to convey the dynamism of Africa and the energy of the earth.
B2. Stonehenge: A Mid-summer's Day Dream (3:29)
A mystical track inspired by the summer solstice at Stonehenge. The echoey synthesizers and quiet rhythms evoke rituals and meditations at ancient altars. This song offers a meditative experience that transcends time and space.
B3. Citadel, Ay Bobo (5:09)
This song, which closes the album, is characterized by grandiose synth sounds and dramatic developments. The phrase "Ay Bobo" sounds like a prayer or a thank you. It's a moving ending that sums up the whole album.
Musical characteristics and influences
Citadels of Mystery is centered around the Moog synthesizer, but the sound textures are extremely diverse. The combination of natural and electronic sounds was innovative at the time, and it can be said to have laid the foundation for modern ambient and experimental music.
The concept of "sound architecture" is felt throughout the album. Each sound is precisely designed, and the whole album feels like it is building a magnificent structure.
While ambient music and field recordings are now well established as genres in their own right, Citadels of Mystery is a pioneering work that goes beyond mere listening experience and asks how music can represent natural environments and cultures.
Bernie Krause's work resonates not only with music lovers, but also with people interested in nature and culture. This album in particular is highly valued as a vintage record and is popular among collectors.
Citadels of Mystery is an iconic album that pushes the boundaries of music, offering listeners a new musical experience. Listen to Bernie Krause's innovation and sonic journey. Listen to this album and discover a new relationship between music and nature.
