What makes Fissures by Robert Rich notable?

Fissures received critical acclaim for its innovative blending of electronic and acoustic elements, solidifying Rich's influence in the ambient music scene. The album is noted for its expansive compositions, especially 'The Road to Wirikuta,' which showcases Rich's ability to create deep sonic landscapes, contributing to the broader ambient movement of the late 1990s. Released in 1997, Fissures marks Robert Rich's fifth studio album and his continued exploration of ambient music after the acclaimed Somnium. At this point in his career, Rich had established himself as a pioneer of the genre, creating immersive sound worlds that blur the line between music and environmental sound.

Fissures works well if you're into meditative journeys through nature, immersive soundscapes for reflection and slow unfolding of intricate layers.

How many songs are on Fissures?

Fissures has 7 tracks, running approximately 61 minutes.

Fissures

Robert Rich · 1997

61 min · 7 tracks · ambient music

Ethereal soundscapes merge with organic textures, invoking a meditative journey through nature's intricate layers.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Road to Wirikuta — This track stands out for its lengthy composition that allows listeners to fully immerse themselves in Rich's textured soundscapes, emphasizing his talent for creating a sense of place.
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Sirena — Featuring fluid melodies and shifting harmonies, this track captures the essence of oceanic themes, reflecting Rich's integration of natural imagery into his sound.
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Mycelia — Through its layered tones and gradual evolution, this piece exemplifies Rich's skill in crafting ambient works that evoke complex biological processes and symbiotic relationships.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental

76 /100

Alpine

Higher than 98% of albums we've rated

Rich's blending of electronic and acoustic elements creates a cohesive and immersive ambient experience.

What we noticed

The album features long, evolving tracks that often blend electronic sounds with organic textures, creating a seamless flow.
Each track typically builds gradually, layering sounds over time rather than introducing abrupt changes or distinct sections.
The use of natural field recordings interspersed with synthesized elements enhances the immersive quality of the soundscapes.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 9/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

meditative journeys through nature
immersive soundscapes for reflection
slow unfolding of intricate layers
extended tracks for deep focus

Maybe skip if you

seeking upbeat, fast-paced tracks
prefer short, standalone songs

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1997, Fissures marks Robert Rich's fifth studio album and his continued exploration of ambient music after the acclaimed Somnium. At this point in his career, Rich had established himself as a pioneer of the genre, creating immersive sound worlds that blur the line between music and environmental sound.
Stylistic neighbors: Steve Roach· Brian Eno· Tangerine Dream

Tracklist

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

1 Turning to Stone 5:27
2 A Canopy of Shivers 5:51
3 Sirena 9:10
4 Mycelia 8:13
5 The Divine Radiance of Invertebrates 8:37
6 The Road to Wirikuta 18:49
7 Tree of the Wind 5:39

What to play next

Listen next

Below Zero

1998

Go back to

Numena + Geometry

1997

Full Robert Rich discography Artists like Robert Rich

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata