What makes Somnific Flux by Mick Harris notable?

This album is notable for its innovative approach within the dark ambient genre, influencing subsequent artists in the realm of experimental electronic music. Its release marked a moment where ambient music began to gain traction as a serious artistic expression beyond conventional boundaries, solidifying Harris's reputation as an avant-garde pioneer. By 1995, Mick Harris had already established himself as a pivotal figure in the experimental music scene, transitioning from his work in grindcore with Napalm Death to explore ambient soundscapes. 'Somnific Flux' represents a significant departure from his earlier aggressive styles, showcasing his evolution into dark ambient territory with these lengthy, atmospheric tracks.

How many songs are on Somnific Flux?

Somnific Flux has 2 tracks, running approximately 66 minutes.

Somnific Flux

Mick Harris · 1995

66 min · 2 tracks · death metal

A haunting exploration of soundscapes that blend dense textures with immersive, elongated compositions.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Distal Sonority — As the longer track on the album, it encapsulates the essence of Harris's exploration into dark ambient textures, creating an enveloping soundscape that immerses the listener for over half an hour.
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Capacious — This piece contrasts with 'Distal Sonority' by introducing subtler dynamics and layered sounds, further expanding on the themes of emptiness and depth that run throughout the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

69 /100

Alpine

Higher than 94% of albums we've rated

The album's immersive soundscapes and elongated compositions create a unique listening experience.

What we noticed

The two tracks each exceed ten minutes, allowing for extended development of themes and textures.
Both pieces utilize layered soundscapes that evolve gradually, creating a sense of immersion and depth.
The album employs minimal rhythmic elements, focusing instead on atmospheric drones and tonal shifts.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 9/10
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.

Tracklist

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

1 Distal Sonority 35:17
2 Capacious 30:51

What to play next

Full Mick Harris discography Artists like Mick Harris

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Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata