What makes Planetary Unfolding by Michael Stearns notable?

This album is significant for its influence on the ambient genre, particularly in cinematic sound design. It has been praised for its pioneering approach to blending electronic music with natural sounds, often used in meditation and relaxation contexts, further solidifying Stearns' reputation. Released in 1981, Planetary Unfolding was Michael Stearns' second album, following his debut release in 1979. At this point, he had begun establishing himself as a prominent figure in the ambient music scene, known for his innovative use of synthesizers and field recordings.

How many songs are on Planetary Unfolding?

Planetary Unfolding has 6 tracks, running approximately 45 minutes.

Planetary Unfolding

Michael Stearns · 1981

45 min · 6 tracks · ambient music

Ethereal soundscapes merge with organic textures, creating an immersive journey through cosmic and terrestrial realms.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
In the Beginning... — This opening track sets the tone for the entire album with its expansive synth layers that evoke a sense of cosmic vastness, inviting listeners into Stearns' immersive world.
→
Toto, I've a Feeling We're Not in Kansas Anymore. — With its shifting textures and dynamic range, this track exemplifies Stearns' ability to create a sense of movement and transformation, reflecting the thematic explorations of reality.
→
Life in the Gravity Well — This track's intricate layering of sounds captures the essence of being anchored by gravity while also hinting at transcendence, showcasing Stearns' skill in marrying concept with sonic experimentation.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

73 /100

Alpine

Higher than 96% of albums we've rated

The album's seamless flow and innovative sound design create an immersive ambient experience.

What we noticed

Each track features long, sustained tones that gradually evolve, creating a sense of movement through space.
The album employs field recordings and synthesized sounds that blend seamlessly, enhancing the immersive quality.

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

Tracklist

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

1 In the Beginning... 8:00
2 Toto, I've a Feeling We're Not in Kansas Anymore. 6:20
3 Wherever Two or More Are Gathered... 9:19
4 Life in the Gravity Well 6:55
5 As the Earth Kissed the Moon 9:55
6 Something's Moving 5:19

What to play next

Listen next

M'Ocean

1984

Go back to

Ancient Leaves

1978

Full Michael Stearns discography Artists like Michael Stearns

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata