"Air is the Means" is only $11.00CAN plus shipping and taxes where applicable!

listen to
Escaped (edit)
Weightless Dream (edit)

For his third CD release, Paul Needler of Arms Full of Sound asks us to consider the idea that "Air is the Means". A conceptual album exploring the role that air plays in our lives, "Air is the Means" is a fascinating collection of songs that manages to give shape and sound to a shapeless and soundless medium.

"Weightless Dream (Edit)" opens the disc with a textured analog sound reminiscent of the Berlin school of electronic music. Lush pads and squelchy melodies permeate the piece, a steady drum form keeping solid throughout. A lovely track to draw one into the album.

"Taking Flight (Edit)" uses oblique motion to suggest the sensation of flying, a constant drone anchoring patterns that progressively build in complexity. Shortly percussive tones enter the track echoing the initial melodies. Very nicely crafted.

Track three, "Escaped (Edit)" is a more abstract piece than the others, relying on oscillating waves to create a rich sense of environment, rather than the melodic patterns used earlier. Subtle and understated, this may be my favorite track on the disc. Exquisite.

Closing track "Solid Textures" is a lush, majestic work that brings together many of the earlier ideas and themes of the disc. Epic in scope, rich in tone, "Solid Textures" is a brilliant piece to close the disc, summing up the idea that "Air is the Means".

Over the course of three CDs, Paul Needler has developed his craft and skills to an impressive level. With this latest release he lives up to and surpasses expectations. If this disc is any indication, there are some very exciting things in store from this bright new talent.

rik - ping things