What makes Cloud About Mercury by David Torn notable?

Cloud About Mercury is noted for its groundbreaking fusion of electronic effects and acoustic instrumentation, influencing a generation of musicians in both jazz and ambient music. The album received critical acclaim upon its release, being highlighted in publications such as DownBeat and The Wire for its innovative sound design and compositional structure. By 1987, David Torn was an established figure in the avant-garde jazz scene, having already released several albums. Cloud About Mercury marked his transition into a more experimental phase, showcasing his unique approach to guitar and sound manipulation. This album followed his critically acclaimed 1984 release, Warm Earth: A Winter's Tale, further solidifying his reputation as an innovator.

Who is Cloud About Mercury for?

Cloud About Mercury works well if you're into immersive soundscapes for deep listening, exploratory journeys through layered textures and patient unfolding of sonic narratives.

How many songs are on Cloud About Mercury?

Cloud About Mercury has 6 tracks, running approximately 44 minutes.

Cloud About Mercury

David Torn · 1987

44 min · 6 tracks · jazz

A complex tapestry of jazz-infused soundscapes layered with experimental textures and improvisational brilliance.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Snapping the Hollow Reed — This track exemplifies Torn's ability to blend intricate melodies with free-form improvisation, creating an immersive listening experience that captures the essence of the album.
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The Mercury Grid — The track showcases Torn's signature guitar work combined with rich electronic layers, illustrating the seamless integration of traditional jazz elements with avant-garde experimentation.
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3 Minutes of Pure Entertainment — This piece stands out for its playful yet challenging structure, encapsulating Torn's inventive spirit while inviting listeners into a whimsical sonic landscape.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

immersive soundscapes for deep listening
exploratory journeys through layered textures
patient unfolding of sonic narratives
moments of spontaneous improvisation

Maybe skip if you

want straightforward song structures
prefer instantly gratifying music

Where this album fits

Career context: By 1987, David Torn was an established figure in the avant-garde jazz scene, having already released several albums. Cloud About Mercury marked his transition into a more experimental phase, showcasing his unique approach to guitar and sound manipulation. This album followed his critically acclaimed 1984 release, Warm Earth: A Winter's Tale, further solidifying his reputation as an innovator.
Stylistic neighbors: Bill Frisell· Nels Cline· Pat Metheny

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Suyafhu Skin... 1:11
2 Snapping the Hollow Reed 7:04
3 The Mercury Grid 6:32
4 3 Minutes of Pure Entertainment 7:05
5 Previous Man 7:52
6 The Network of Sparks: A. The Delicate Code / B. Egg Learns to Walk /... Suyafhu Seal 15:12

What to play next

Listen next

Door X

1990

Go back to

Best Laid Plans

1984

Full David Torn discography Artists like David Torn

jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata