Olma & Michael Grigoni - Tusk II (Nettwerk) [Ambient]

Olma (yet another Chris Bartels pseudonym) & Michael Grigoni, both no strangers to this page, fuse minds, machines & musical abilities like an old married couple. If Tusk's tranquil electroacoustic idyll wasn't enough, they've now hand picked 5 similarly attuned ambient collaborators to provide mildly more dynamic, unfailingly sympathetic, equally serene versions & thankfully extend the running time. Look no further for your Sunday soundtrack.

What The Release Notes Say

"Tusk II" represents a powerful convergence of talent between Chris Bartels, known for his work as Olma, and Michael Grigoni. This album is a testament to their unique artistic visions, blending ambient soundscapes with evocative instrumental melodies to create a deeply immersive experience.

For Chris Bartels, "Tusk II" is a notable achievement in his ever-expanding musical journey. Having taught himself guitar in high school, Bartels' passion for recording and songwriting led him to explore home production. "I had no idea what I was doing," he recalls, "but I just loved experimenting. There was no turning back." His evolution into the ambient and modern classical genres has been marked by a growing appreciation for these styles, both as a creator and a listener. Bartels' diverse projects under his company Anthem Falls—including Bora York, Blurstem, Glass Echoes, illi mel, and Mum Child—showcase his versatility and drive. "Creating art can be a rollercoaster ride of emotions," Bartels reflects. "I try to just enjoy the creative process."

Michael Grigoni's musical path has been equally varied and rich. Growing up playing the piano, he later explored the uilleann pipes before settling on the dobro, lap steel guitar, and pedal steel guitar. Grigoni has released several instrumental albums on Other Songs and ambient/minimalist label 12k, including "Mount Carmel" and "Slow Machines" (with Stephen Vitiello). His music, described as “cinematic pastoral” by Stationary Travels and “meditative, evolving, expectant; a kind of slow Americana” by Le Devoir, has garnered critical acclaim. NPR Music included "Slow Machines" among its top ten albums of February 2020.

In "Tusk II," Olma's gorgeous tapestries of webbed guitars and faintly glowing textured tones intertwine seamlessly with Grigoni's cinematic, pastoral sound. This collaboration marks a fascinating new chapter for both artists, showcasing their ability to create music that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. The album captures the essence of their combined creativity, offering listeners a transformative journey through sound.

Written and produced by Chris Bartels and Michael Grigoni.

Additional instrumentation on Stephen Vitiello's Tusk remix:

Clarinet by Molly Berg.

Bass clarinet by Chrystine Rayburn.

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Playlist Companion

For more great ambient listening check out the Slow Ambient Playlist: