Manafon
David Sylvian · 2009
49 min · 9 tracks · jazz · new wave · ambient
A haunting exploration of soundscapes where fragmented melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics and ambient textures.
Why this album works
- Best for
- haunting soundscapes for introspection wave-like pacing with dynamic shifts fragmented melodies encouraging reflection
- Context
- Released in 2009, 'Manafon' is David Sylvian's first album in six years, following the collaborative project 'Blemish' in 2003. At this point in his career, Sylvian was delving deeper into avant-garde territory, reflecting a mature evolution in his musical approach and aesthetic sensibilities.
- If you like
- jazz, new wave, ambient
Manafon is an album by David Sylvian, released in 2009. A haunting exploration of soundscapes where fragmented melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics and ambient textures. 'Manafon' received critical acclaim, particularly for its experimental nature, and marked a significant departure from Sylvian's earlier work. The album's innovative use of spoken word and sound collage had a notable influence on contemporary art pop and ambient music artists, earning praise from outlets like The Wire and The Guardian. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Manafon sound like?
A haunting exploration of soundscapes where fragmented melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics and ambient textures. Rooted in jazz and new wave.
What makes Manafon by David Sylvian notable?
'Manafon' received critical acclaim, particularly for its experimental nature, and marked a significant departure from Sylvian's earlier work. The album's innovative use of spoken word and sound collage had a notable influence on contemporary art pop and ambient music artists, earning praise from outlets like The Wire and The Guardian. Released in 2009, 'Manafon' is David Sylvian's first album in six years, following the collaborative project 'Blemish' in 2003. At this point in his career, Sylvian was delving deeper into avant-garde territory, reflecting a mature evolution in his musical approach and aesthetic sensibilities.
Who is Manafon for?
Manafon works well if you're into haunting soundscapes for introspection, wave-like pacing with dynamic shifts and fragmented melodies encouraging reflection.
How many songs are on Manafon?
Manafon has 9 tracks, running approximately 49 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Small Metal Gods 5:48
- 2 The Rabbit Skinner 4:41
- 3 Random Acts of Senseless Violence Standout 7:06
- 4 The Greatest Living Englishman Standout 10:54
- 5 125 Spheres 0:29
- 6 Snow White in Appalachia Standout 6:35
- 7 Emily Dickinson 6:25
- 8 The Department of Dead Letters 2:25
- 9 Manafon 5:22
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