Invisible Design II
Bill Laswell · 2009
49 min · 10 tracks · jazz
A meditative blend of electronic textures and organic instrumentation that invites deep listening and introspection.
Top tracks — play these first
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Xtrak Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
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Aphasia — This track exemplifies Laswell's signature balance of rhythm and atmosphere, where electronic elements intertwine seamlessly with jazz-inflected improvisation, creating a hypnotic experience.
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Gulf of Stars — The expansive sound design in this track captures a cosmic essence, using layered textures that evoke imagery of vastness and depth, reflecting Laswell's mastery in creating immersive sound environments.
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Solar Clip — This track stands out for its rhythmic complexity and dynamic shifts, showcasing Laswell’s ability to merge dub influences with avant-garde sensibilities, resulting in a compelling auditory journey.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album's intricate soundscapes and meditative qualities invite deep listening, showcasing Laswell's skill in blending genres.
What we noticed
- The album features long, evolving tracks that often blend electronic sounds with live instrumentation, creating a layered sonic texture.
- Each track maintains a slow tempo and minimalistic structure, allowing for gradual development and exploration of themes.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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8/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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9/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. 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
- deep introspection during quiet moments
- wave-like pacing with dynamic shifts
- immersive listening for focused exploration
- evocative soundscapes for contemplation
Maybe skip if you
- seeking upbeat, fast-paced tracks
- prefer straightforward, catchy tunes
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Experimental — It represents a departure into intricate soundscapes, challenging traditional structures.
- Themes
- cosmic soundscapes· dub-inflected improvisation· meditative atmospheres
- Career context
- By 2009, Bill Laswell was already an established figure in the experimental music scene, known for his innovative fusion of genres. 'Invisible Design II' follows his 2008 project 'Invisible Design', further exploring his sonic landscapes and collaborations. This release showcases Laswell's ongoing evolution as a producer and composer, incorporating elements of dub and jazz while pushing the boundaries of sound.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Tackhead· Herbie Hancock· Thievery Corporation
Tracklist
- 1 Xtrak Start here 2:59
- 2 Quartz 5:12
- 3 Aphasia 7:16
- 4 Sub Sonnet 7:12
- 5 Solar Clip 3:26
- 6 Iron Monger 1:56
- 7 Fractal 5:09
- 8 Pillar 3:09
- 9 Gulf of Stars 7:08
- 10 Darkness After 6:13
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
The Richest Man in Babylon
Thievery Corporation
Combines electronic and organic sounds, creating lush soundscapes for introspective listening.
Phaedra
Tangerine Dream
Explores cosmic themes with immersive electronic textures and a meditative ambiance.
Spaces
Nils Frahm
Merges live instrumentation with electronic elements, inviting deep reflection through sound.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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