| This is the fifth full-length release by Swedish musician, Dag Rosenqvist aka Jasper TX. Black Sleep, in a way, feels like the album he has been building up to for some time now, as if all his previous experiences in creating haunting, oft-beautiful soundscapes have been harvested and fine-tuned. Originally conceived as one continuous track, Black Sleep is no random collection of songs -- it is one work, one statement. Ambitious as it may be, it's impossible to deny its resounding success. As is often the case with Jasper TX's music, the guitar plays a prominent role. This album sees every conceivable sound caressed and tortured from the instrument, from the romantic and direct chimes of "Pt. III" to the distant whisper of "Pt. IV." Rosenqvist states Oren Ambarchi, Johann Johannsson, Arvo Pärt and Tim Hecker amongst his influences -- something that gives some insight into the sound and scale of this release. Impossible to explain in simple terms, comparisons could also be made to Deathprod, with sounds slowly emerging and disappearing into thick clouds of murky warmth. Black Sleep is also akin to a symphony -- its orchestra made from guitars, pianos and synthesizers instead of the usual strings and brass. This release is possibly one of Rosenqvist's darkest moments, its bleakness somewhat in tribute to the soundtracks and visual artistry of David Lynch's Mulholland Drive. This is music for rainy days spent indoors, looking out towards a vacant street while tracing the build up and release of condensation droplets. This release is a stand-out for the Miasmah label and will undoubtedly be remembered as Jasper TX's most concise and accomplished album to date. |
