What makes Solid Ether by Nils Petter Molvær notable?

'Solid Ether' received critical acclaim for its pioneering blend of electronic elements within jazz, influencing a wave of artists seeking to merge these genres. It was recognized in various publications as a significant work in the early 2000s, contributing to the evolution of electronic jazz music. Nils Petter Molvær was building on the success of his breakthrough album, 'Khmer', which had established him as a leading figure in the nu-jazz movement. Released in 2000, 'Solid Ether' marked his continued exploration of blending genres, showcasing his innovative approach to sound production and composition.

Who is Solid Ether for?

Solid Ether works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, gradual builds and payoffs and atmospheric background focus.

How many songs are on Solid Ether?

Solid Ether has 10 tracks, running approximately 50 minutes.

Solid Ether

Nils Petter Molvær · 2000

50 min · 10 tracks · electronic music

A fusion of electronic and jazz that weaves atmospheric soundscapes with haunting trumpet melodies and intricate rhythms.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Dead Indeed — The opening track sets the tone with its expansive soundscapes and intricate trumpet lines, establishing the album's ethereal atmosphere.
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Vilderness 1 — This track showcases a deep layering of electronic textures and live instrumentation, exemplifying Molvær's seamless integration of styles.
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Kakonita — With its rhythmic complexities and minimalist approach, this track highlights Molvær's ability to create tension and release within an ambient framework.
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Trip — This piece features a compelling interplay between electronic beats and melodic improvisation, serving as a hallmark of Molvær's signature style.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

70 /100

Alpine

Higher than 94% of albums we've rated

The album blends electronic and jazz elements effectively, showcasing strong composition and craft while maintaining a distinct sound.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of trumpet melodies layered over electronic textures, creating a rich atmospheric soundscape.
Tracks often shift dynamics and tempo, with some pieces maintaining a steady rhythm while others explore more abstract structures.

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

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

long, immersive listening sessions
gradual builds and payoffs
atmospheric background focus
dynamic emotional journeys

Where this album fits

Career context: Nils Petter Molvær was building on the success of his breakthrough album, 'Khmer', which had established him as a leading figure in the nu-jazz movement. Released in 2000, 'Solid Ether' marked his continued exploration of blending genres, showcasing his innovative approach to sound production and composition.
Stylistic neighbors: Eivind Aarset· Bugge Wesseltoft· Nils Frahm

Tracklist

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

1 Dead Indeed 7:30
2 Vilderness 1 7:48
3 Kakonita 5:02
4 Merciful 1 1:02
5 Ligotage 6:43
6 Trip 6:24
7 Vilderness 2 4:56
8 Tragamar 4:45
9 Solid Ether 5:12
10 Merciful 2 1:13

What to play next

Listen next

NP3

2002

Go back to

Khmer

1997

Full Nils Petter Molvær discography Artists like Nils Petter Molvær

jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata